Did you know that your child’s poop is a window into their health? By paying attention to their bowel movements, you can get clues about whether your child is getting the nutrients they need and if they are staying hydrated. In this article we will cover everything you need to know about your child’s poop including what is normal and what is not. We will also discuss what to do if you are concerned about your child’s poop.

What is poop?

Poop is waste material that your child’s body doesn’t need. It is made up of food that has been digested as well as bacteria and other cells from the lining of the intestines.

What color should my child’s poop be?

A child’s poop can normally range in color from brown to green to yellow. The color of your child’s poop can depend on what they have eaten. For example, if your child eats a lot of green vegetables, their poop may be green.

If you see red, black, or white in your child’s poop, this could indicate a problem:

• Red poop: Red stool can indicate an anal fissure or lower gastrointestinal bleeding, but it can also be caused by red foods, red food dye, or certain medicines. If you believe the red color is caused by blood, you should seek medical care.
• Black poop: Black poop can be a sign of bleeding or other injuries within the gastrointestinal tract, especially if the stool looks like tar. Eating black foods or a lot of iron can also cause black stool. You should contact your doctor if you suspect that your child’s diet is not the cause of black poop.
• White poop: White, gray, or light tan stool occurs when there is a lack of bile and can indicate a problem with the liver or gallbladder. There could be a serious underlying problem, and you should see their doctor immediately. Note: some antidiarrhea medications can also cause white stools.

What consistency should my child’s poop be?

Poop should be soft and shaped like a sausage or snake. Poop that comes out in hard pellets or is large, lumpy and dry indicates your child may be constipated.

How often should my child poop?

There is no magic number for how often a child should poop. Some babies poop several times a day, while others poop only once every few days. As long as your child is pooping softly and regularly, you do not need to worry.

When to worry about your child’s poop

While occasional variations in poop are normal, certain signs may indicate a potential issue:

• Constipation:
  • Constipation results in hard, dry poop that is difficult to pass. It can be caused by dehydration, a lack of fiber in the diet or a medical condition. Other signs of constipation may include belly pain and a feeling of being full even after going to the bathroom.
  • If your child is constipated for two weeks or more or cannot enjoy normal activities due to pain, you should contact their doctor.
• Diarrhea:
  • Diarrhea is loose, watery poop that happens more often than usual. Other signs of diarrhea may include vomiting, fever and belly pain.
  • Diarrhea can be caused by an infection, such as a virus, bacteria, or a parasite, or a problem with certain cells in your child’s digestive tract. Prolonged or severe diarrhea could be a sign of a serious disease and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
• Blood in the stool:
  • This can be a sign of various conditions including anal fissures or more serious issues.

What should I do if I am concerned about my child’s poop?

If you are concerned about your child’s poop, it is always best to see a doctor. They can help you determine the cause of the problem and recommend treatment.

Here are some additional tips for keeping your child’s digestive system healthy:

• Make sure your child is getting plenty of fluids.
• Give your child a diet that is high in fiber.
• Encourage your child to be physically active.

By following these tips you can help your child stay healthy and have regular bowel movements.