Changing diapers isn't much fun, but it is important, because your newborn's wet and soiled diapers can give you clues about your baby's health.
Some parents like to keep a daily journal or calendar of when they feed and change their baby.
That helps them get to know their baby's routine.
First, let's talk about normal diaper changes.
In the first few days, your baby may have about 3 wet diapers a day.
But soon you can expect about 6 to 8 wet diapers a day.
Try to check your baby's diaper at least every 2 hours, and if it needs to be changed, do it as soon as you can.
That will help prevent diaper rash.
As for poopy diapers, your baby may only have 1 or 2 a day, or as many as 5 to 10 a day.
This may slow down in a couple of weeks.
After babies are a few weeks old, some may go 2 days or longer between poops, and that's usually okay as long as your baby is comfortable, healthy, and growing as expected.
Now, in the first week, you'll probably see some changes in the color of your baby's poop.
The first one will be black and sticky. That's the meconium.
And the next ones may be green.
By the end of the first week, the poop may look yellow or yellowish brown, and it may be a little runny or pasty, especially if you breast-feed.
Don't worry. That's all normal.
So, what isn't normal?
Babies can become dehydrated if they're not getting enough breast milk or formula, or if they lose fluid because of diarrhea, vomiting, or a fever.
Call your doctor if your baby has fewer wet or poopy diapers than usual, especially if the poop is hard or dry, or the urine is dark yellow and has a strong smell.
Remember, always wash your hands, and your baby's hands, before and after a diaper change.
That will help you both stay healthy.
