#asktheexpert My baby is 4 months old and his poop is of dark green color. Is it normal?

Question

Accepted Answer

Nothing to e Wei try about colour if the poop if consistency of the motion is normal so keep feeding the baby well on regular intervals and burp after feeds

Accepted Answer

Green poop in a four-month-old baby can be quite common and is usually not a cause for concern. There are several reasons why your baby's stool might be dark green:

### Common Causes of Green Poop in Babies

1. **Formula Feeding**: Some formula-fed babies may have green stools. This can be due to the iron content in the formula, which can cause darker or greenish stools.

2. **Foremilk-Hindmilk Imbalance**: If your baby is breastfed, green poop might occur if they are getting more foremilk (the lower-fat milk that comes first) and less hindmilk (the richer, fattier milk that comes later). This can happen if the baby is feeding for short periods on each breast or if the milk flow is very fast.

3. **Dietary Changes**: If you have recently changed your baby’s formula or if you are introducing new foods (though most babies at four months are still on milk), it could cause changes in stool color.

4. **Infection or Illness**: Occasionally, green poop could be a sign of a minor stomach bug or a mild infection. If your baby seems otherwise happy and is feeding well, it is usually not a concern.

5. **Iron Supplements**: If your baby is taking iron supplements, it can also cause the stool to be greenish or dark.

6. **Digestive Changes**: As your baby's digestive system is maturing, the stool color may vary, including green shades.

### When to Be Concerned

While green poop is often normal, there are some signs that might indicate a need to consult a pediatrician:

- **Foul Smell and Mucus**: If the stool has a very foul smell, or if there is a lot of mucus in the stool, it could indicate an infection or food intolerance.
- **Diarrhea**: If the poop is watery and occurs frequently, this could indicate diarrhea. Dehydration can be a concern if diarrhea persists.
- **Blood in Stool**: If there is any blood or if the poop is black and tarry (which could indicate digested blood), seek medical advice immediately.
- **Other Symptoms**: If your baby is also showing signs of discomfort, fever, vomiting, irritability, or decreased feeding, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician.

### Conclusion

Dark green poop in a four-month-old baby is usually not a cause for concern, especially if your baby is otherwise healthy and feeding well. However, if you notice any other symptoms or if you are concerned about the change in stool color, it is always best to consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice.