If you have recently had a baby and know very little about children, then every little thing can cause you to go into a panic. You should understand that there are many variations in the way that babies sleep, eat, cry, and move. Also, some milestones may be met early, on time, or late, and this is acceptable for most children. Even though you know this information, there are certain things that may cause you to panic. Abnormal looking fecal matter is one of these things. Fecal matter is typically not something you should be concerned about. Keep reading to learn about some abnormalities and what they might mean.
Green And Sticky
If you have just taken your child home from the hospital, then you are likely to experience the first or second poop within the first 24 hours. This poop is a specific type called meconium, and it can be quite shocking to a first time parent. Meconium waste consists of the material that your child consumed while still in the womb. The feces are usually extremely thick and sticky, like sap or tar. It is usually dark in color and may appear either green, brown, or black.
While the meconium does not look pleasant, it is normal and it does not have a foul odor. You may notice the fecal matter for a few days, and this is completely normal as well. As your child starts to consume formula or breast milk, the feces will start to turn a lighter shade of yellow or brown.
The only problem you may experience with meconium is getting it off your new infant's skin. Baby wipes as well as soap can spread it around. If you are having some difficulty, then place some olive or baby oil on a cloth before wiping the bottom. This can help to release the waste while also keeping friction to a minimum. Oils also help to create a protective barrier on the skin so the next bowel movement is easier to clean.
Black Bits
If you suddenly see black bits in your child's poop that look like coffee grounds, then this is blood in the stool. While blood in the poop is a sign of concern, it is often not your child's blood that has worked its way through the digestive system. The blood often comes from the mother and is the result of cracked, raw, and bleeding nipples. Also, clogged ducts can cause some blood to be released into your milk supply.
If you are breastfeeding and have been neglecting your nipples, then now is the time to start caring for them. You should rinse your nipples after every feeding to make sure that your baby's saliva does not cause an infection. Also, place an antibacterial gel on cracks and openings and use lanolin creams to smooth dry skin. Nursing pads can help to soothe cuts as well and reduce bleeding issues.
Also, it may be wise to pump breast milk for several days to a week. This will give your nipples a rest and help to reduce irritation that has likely led to the cracks.
Runny
Fecal matter that is runny can mean a number of things. It can mean that your child has an illness. If the feces appear slimy with mucous, then this is a sign that your child has a cold or a flu virus. The mucus comes from the secretions that are created by your child's nose, sinuses, and possibly the lungs. Much of this mucus is swallowed and moves through the intestinal tract.
If you suspect that your child has an illness, then look for other signs of a viral infection like irritability, a fever, or a noticeably runny nose. Most illnesses will run their course normally, but you can make an appointment to see your doctor if the ailment is concerning to you.
Runny fecal matter can be a sign of a food allergy too, so pay close attention to the feces when you switch formula or start adding new foods to your child's diet. Also, make sure to provide plenty of fluids until the poop bulks up and appears normal again. For more information, contact a clinic like Willow Oak Pediatrics.
