The amount of diapers a baby goes through can be daunting, but it can also be an indicator of proper milk transfer and nourishment. Here is the amount of diapers your baby should be soiling for each stage after birth.
Your baby should have their first urination within the first 8-24 hours of life. They will have 2-6 wet diapers per day for the first 2 days, and can be up to 20 times per day after those 2 days. This is because infant's kidneys during this time are unable to concentrate urine and therefore excrete a lot of fluids.
After the first week of life, your baby will be putting out 200-300ml every 24 hours. Some infants may have red or pink stains in the urine, which may be attributed to uric acid crystals, however, should still be check out for possible blood in the urine and hydration status.
Since stool coloring and texture are relatively related to the maturation of both the infant gut and breastmilk composition, the progression is easier to follow than urine.
First your baby will have what is called meconium (black tarry stools) within the first 24 hours. What is mainly in the stool is secretions from the intestine, mucosal cells, and other bodily fluids that your baby is excreting.
After 2-3 days, your baby's stools will transition through a few stages. This is also when more mature milk begins. They will turn to a more greenish-black color and transition to a greenish brown, then more of a yellow color. The texture does vary more from watery to thick---this is not a concern as it is normal, however, they will have less of an odor and will be less 'sticky' than the previous meconium.
Eventually, once solid foods are introduced, stools will become more brown and solid as added fiber and solids are incorporated.
Breastfed babies will pass stools up to four times a day, but can vary. Formula fed babies are less frequent and can be as little as twice a day or even every couple of days.
If you are concerned about the number of diapers your baby goes through or want to learn more, we can help you at Mamas Maternal Health! Just check out our website!
Until next time!
Mikayla and Cassie
Mamas Maternal Health Registered Dietitians/Lactation Counselors
References:
Lawrence, M., (2016)., Jaundice and the Breastfed Baby., Breastfeeding and Human Lactation.,
Photo by Gift Habeshaw on Unsplash
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