Diarrhea in Newborns: Recognition, Causes, and Assistance

Photo by @cafema.illustration

 

The newborn phase is a time full of wonders, but also full of new challenges and concerns. One of the topics that often worries new parents is their baby’s digestion. Especially diarrhea in newborns can raise many questions: Is this normal? Should I see a doctor? What can I do?

What to do if your newborn has diarrhea? With newborns experiencing diarrhea, it’s crucial to ensure adequate hydration and to compensate for fluid loss. It’s important to closely observe your baby’s condition and consult a pediatrician if diarrhea persists, signs of dehydration appear, or if there are additional symptoms. Additionally, hygiene and frequent diaper changes should be a priority to prevent skin problems.

In the first months of your baby’s life, you’ll learn that every “diaper report” tells its own story. In this article, we’ll explore together when exactly to consider diarrhea in babies, how to recognize it and what the causes might be. You’ll also find out what to do if your baby has diarrhea and how Judes cloth diapers can help you manage this challenge in a clean and safe way.

Recognizing Diarrhea in Babies: A Definition

As loving parents, you always want to make sure your child is well. And that also includes understanding what’s happening in their little body. When it comes to diarrhea, it’s important to know exactly what it is in order to respond appropriately.

Diarrhea in newborns is primarily recognized by a change in consistency and volume of the stool. If your baby fills the diaper more frequently than usual and the stool is also more liquid than normal, this is considered diarrhea. For newborns who are exclusively breastfed or formula-fed, it’s normal for the stool to be soft. That’s why telling the difference between regular soft stool and diarrhea can be challenging, especially for the youngest babies.

So, it’s about an increase in stool frequency and a changed, more watery consistency. Unlike what you would expect in adults, diarrhea in babies doesn’t always have to be accompanied by an increased volume. It can also simply be an increased frequency with smaller, overall more liquid amounts.

However, keep in mind that occasional variations in your baby’s bowel movements are normal and can have various causes. It’s not always a reason to worry. Nevertheless, it is good to stay alert in order to notice and respond to changes accordingly.

Photo by @jasminstadlhofer

The Significance of Bowel Movements in Babies

Your baby can’t tell you how they’re feeling, so it’s up to you to watch for signs that could indicate diarrhea. This can be a bit of a challenge, as every baby is unique—and so are their bowel movements. Don’t worry, though; there are a few clues that can help you.

Frequency and Consistency of Stool

Normally, newborns have bowel movements several times a day, and the consistency can range from firm to liquid, especially if they are breastfed. What characterizes diarrhea is a noticeable increase in the frequency of bowel movements and a watery consistency that differs from your baby’s usual pattern.

Color Differences in Stool

The color of the stool can also offer clues. Healthy stool from a breastfed baby is typically mustard yellow, while formula feeding may lead to a somewhat firmer, greenish-yellow to brownish stool. Diarrhea, on the other hand, might appear lighter, greenish, or even watery in color.

Here is a quick reference guide on baby stools:

Stool color	Consistency	Possible meaning
Mustard yellow	Soft/Mushy	Normal for breastfed babies
Greenish-yellow to brownish	Mushy/Firm	Normal for formula-fed babies
Greenish/Watery	Thin/Watery	Diarrhea
Orange/Red	Variable	Indication of food intolerance or other issues (consult a doctor)
Very pale/Whitish	Variable	Possible liver problems (consult a doctor)
Black	Tar-like	Normal after birth (meconium), after that consult a doctor

Note: This is a general guideline. Variations can be normal, but if there are persistent deviations, you should consult a medical professional.

It’s important to understand that diarrhea is not just about the diapers. Also observe other symptoms like irritability, fever, or changes in your baby’s wellbeing. These could be additional signs that something is wrong.

Now that you know what diarrhea can look like in babies, let’s move on to the possible causes and find out what might be behind it.

 

Newborn with Diarrhea: Possible Causes

If your newborn has diarrhea, it's a sign that their body is reacting to something. There are various reasons why diarrhea can occur. Below you’ll find some of the most common causes to help you respond appropriately.

1. Infections: Viruses, bacteria, or parasites can trigger diarrhea. Rotaviruses in particular are a frequent cause of gastrointestinal infections in young children.
   
   
2. Food intolerances and allergies: Some babies may be sensitive to ingredients in formula. Cow’s milk protein allergy is one of the more common intolerances.
   
   
3. Antibiotics or other medications: Sometimes, medications given to your baby can cause diarrhea by disrupting the balance of the gut flora.
   
   
4. Too rapid a change in diet: An abrupt change in your baby's diet can also lead to diarrhea. This is true both for switching from breast milk to formula and for introducing solid foods.
   
   
5. Travel or environmental changes: Sometimes, stress factors like traveling or changes in the environment can upset your baby’s tummy.
   
   

Keep in mind that mild and occasional diarrhea can be normal and often resolves on its own. But if you notice that diarrhea persists, is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or if your baby shows signs of dehydration (such as sunken eyes, a dry diaper for several hours, or dry skin), you should absolutely seek medical advice.

During times when your baby has diarrhea, a reliable diaper is essential. Judes cloth diapers are designed to be dependable even in these challenging moments and to protect your baby’s delicate skin.

What to Do if Your Baby Has Diarrhea? First Aid and Measures

If your baby shows signs of diarrhea, it can be unsettling at first. However, there are effective steps you can take to help your child and relieve their discomfort.

• Hydration is key: The most important thing with diarrhea is to make sure your baby is getting enough fluids. Because of the increased fluid loss, there is a risk of dehydration.
  For breastfed babies: Continue breastfeeding, as breast milk provides the necessary nutrients and fluids and can even help shorten the duration of the illness.
  For formula-fed babies: Continue offering formula and ask your pediatrician whether additional fluids such as electrolyte solutions are appropriate.

• Monitor and manage diet: Keep a close eye on the frequency and consistency of stools. If your baby is already eating solid foods, it may be helpful to temporarily switch to easily digestible foods such as rice porridge, bananas, or grated apple (the BRAT diet).

• Don’t hesitate to visit the doctor: If you are unsure or if the diarrhea lasts several days, is accompanied by fever or vomiting, do not hesitate to consult a doctor. Especially at any sign of dehydration, immediate action should be taken.

• Enhance hygiene measures: With a newborn experiencing diarrhea, it is even more important to pay attention to hygiene. Change diapers frequently to prevent skin irritation, and clean the diaper area gently but thoroughly.

• Trust in cloth diapers: In this challenging time, Judes cloth diapers can be a great support. They are designed to remain leak-proof even with diarrhea while being gentle on your baby's skin. Thanks to the high absorbency of cloth diapers and the soft, breathable materials, your baby's skin is protected from soreness.

• Extra tip: Cloth diaper hygiene With diarrhea, it's particularly important to clean cloth diapers correctly. First, rinse them in cold water to remove stool, then wash them at a higher temperature with a gentle detergent for cloth diapers. This ensures that all germs are killed and the diapers are ready for the next use.

Your baby is resilient and with proper care, you'll overcome this little hurdle. And remember: Diarrhea is usually just a temporary event, and with the right support, your baby will soon be feeling well again.

Judes Cloth Diapers – Your Reliable Partner Even in Difficult Times

When life with a newborn presents new challenges, it's comforting to have something you can rely on. This is where Judes cloth diapers come in: your reliable partner, offering comfort and protection in tough times. Discover the many benefits for yourself with our cloth diaper trial set:

• Maximum protection for delicate skin: Judes cloth diapers are crafted with special care and attention for your baby's sensitive skin. They provide a gentle yet secure barrier against moisture and ensure good ventilation. This is especially important during diarrhea to prevent skin irritation and diaper dermatitis.
• High-quality materials and high absorbency: The diapers are made from high-quality, absorbent materials that remain reliable even with increased fluid. The fabrics are carefully chosen to ensure breathability and prevent leaks. Judes stay leakproof for up to 12 hours, making our cloth diapers ideal for nighttime use.
• Eco-friendly and economical: Mindfulness and sustainability are more than just buzzwords at Judes. They are a reusable option that not only reduces waste, but over the long term saves you money with cloth diapers.
• Simple to use and care for: Even during stressful times, cloth diapers don’t have to be complicated. Judes diapers are designed to be easy to change and clean, even when dealing with diarrhea. Changing with Judes is simple because they consist only of an absorbent inner diaper and a waterproof cover, and are easily adjustable with Velcro fastenings.
• Together through any situation: With Judes cloth diapers you’re prepared for anything. They offer your baby comfort and protection, while giving you the reassurance that you're caring for your child's health and protecting the environment at the same time.

You also benefit from the following advantages:

Sustainability

• Environmentally friendly: Judes cloth diapers help save about a ton of plastic waste per child. Unlike disposable diapers, which become hazardous waste and cause long-term environmental pollution, our cloth diapers are an eco-friendly alternative.
• Resource efficient: Manufacturing Judes diapers uses significantly less CO₂, water, and energy compared to disposable diapers. Even taking washing into account, Judes remain the more sustainable choice.

Skin Health

• Natural materials: Judes uses breathable organic cotton, free from chemicals like fragrances and parabens. This is in contrast to many disposables, which often promote skin irritations.
• Skin-friendly: By avoiding harsh superabsorbents and chemicals, Judes offers a skin-friendly environment that minimizes the risk of diaper dermatitis.

Earlier potty training

• Bio-feedback: Unlike disposable diapers that often lock away the wetness, Judes let children feel the moisture, which promotes faster toilet learning.

Less time required

• Time efficiency: Judes reduce total effort for parents, as you spend less time shopping and managing waste. 15 minutes of washing per week contrasts with countless hours spent on shopping and waste disposal.

Cost savings

• Economical: In the long run, you can save up to €3,000 per child by using Judes instead of disposables. These savings are due to reusability and the option to resell the diapers.

No leaking

• Efficient absorption: The special cotton weave of Judes quickly and effectively absorbs liquid. Disposable diapers, on the other hand, can struggle with heavy wetters, as liquids are not absorbed quickly enough and may run off.
• Long-lasting protection: Judes offers up to 12 hours of protection without leakage, ideal for nighttime use—in contrast to many disposable diapers, which may leak.

Hygienic

• Odor neutral: The breathable nature of Judes diapers allows for effective odor neutralization. Disposables trap moisture and encourage odor in airtight diaper sacks.
• Air circulation: Our non-airtight storage of used diapers in special diaper bags allows for natural air circulation, which is more hygienic than the anaerobic environment of diaper bins.