#asktheexpert my baby is pooing 5 to 6 times a day, is it normal

Question

Accepted Answer

It's not uncommon for babies to poop multiple times a day, especially depending on their age, diet, and overall health. Here's a breakdown of what might be normal and when you might need to seek advice:

### 1. **Breastfed Babies**:
- **Frequency**: Breastfed babies, especially newborns, may poop after every feeding, which can be 6-8 times a day or even more in the early months. This is normal and tends to decrease as the baby grows.
- **Texture**: Their stools are usually loose, yellow, and seedy, and this is perfectly healthy.

### 2. **Formula-fed Babies**:
- **Frequency**: Formula-fed babies tend to poop less often than breastfed babies, but some may still have multiple bowel movements per day. Usually, 1-3 times a day is typical, but it varies by baby.
- **Texture**: Their stools may be firmer and have a different color compared to breastfed babies.

### 3. **Babies on Solids (Around 6+ Months)**:
- As babies start solids, the stool pattern often changes. They may poop less frequently, but some babies still poop multiple times a day, especially if they are adjusting to new foods.
  
### 4. **Potential Concerns**:
- **Diarrhea**: If the poop is very watery, and your baby is pooping much more frequently than usual (more than 6-8 times), it could be a sign of diarrhea. Watch for signs of dehydration like dry lips, fewer wet diapers, or lethargy.
- **Infection**: If your baby has fever, vomiting, or blood/mucus in the stool, these could be signs of an infection, and you should consult a doctor.
- **Sudden Changes**: If there's a sudden increase in the frequency of pooping and it's accompanied by changes in texture or other symptoms like irritability, it’s a good idea to check with your pediatrician.

### What to Do:
- Monitor your baby for signs of dehydration, like fewer wet diapers.
- Ensure your baby stays hydrated, especially if they are losing more fluids through frequent stools.
- If the baby is active, feeding well, and doesn't seem uncomfortable, it's likely normal. But if you're unsure, especially if the frequency of pooping is a sudden change, you can always reach out to your pediatrician for peace of mind.

In general, if your baby is happy, feeding well, and not showing signs of distress, pooping 5-6 times a day is likely normal. However, any concerning symptoms like diarrhea, discomfort, or dehydration should prompt you to consult your doctor.