If baby doesn’t pass meconium within 1-2 days, then it’s possible that there may be an issue such as intestinal obstruction, or other illness. If you are concerned about your baby’s poop, it is crucial to immediately contact your doctor or midwife. This is to ensure that there are no problems or complications.

How long does meconium last?

Meconium stools generally last around 3-5 days after your baby is born. After meconium, comes transitional stool which has more of a greeny/brown colour – this is the in-between poop while your body’s baby begins processing milk more efficiently.

After a day or two of transitional poop, you can expect that you baby will start to have regular baby poop – for breastfed babies, this can have a mustard colour and sometimes look like it has seeds  (fat globules) in it. For formula fed babies, the colour can range from brown/dark green/dark yellow – depending on the formula type.

What happens if baby passes meconium during labour or pregnancy?

Generally babies do not poop in the womb. However, sometimes they do pass meconium during labour which can cause a complication called meconium aspiration syndrome. This sometimes happens as a result of fetal distress.

What is Meconium Aspiration Syndrome?

Meconium aspiration syndrome is when babies breathe in amniotic fluid that contains meconium. The meconium particles can block a newborn’s airways and cause parts of their lungs to collapse. This is a serious condition – although the outlook is generally optimistic.

Meconium aspiration treatment requires swift action that may include suctioning of upper airways, supplemental oxygen or antibiotics. Your baby will generally need to spend at least a couple of days in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or Special Care Unit for monitoring.

Does meconium smell bad?

No, meconium does not have a strong odor. It is actually odorless, which can be a relief for new parents who may be worried about unpleasant smells.

Since the baby has not started digesting breast milk or formula yet, the poop does not have a distinct smell.

However, as your baby’s diet changes and they begin to consume breast milk or formula, their poop will start to develop a more noticeable odor. This is completely normal and nothing to be concerned about. It’s just a sign that their digestive system is maturing and functioning as it should. So, for now, enjoy the lack of odor while it lasts!

So – is it normal?

In general – yes! If your baby is under 3 days old, meconium poop is expected and very normal.

My hot tip to wipe off this sticky tar poop easier – lather coconut oil on your baby’s bottom during changes. It’ll help it wipe right off clean next time baby produces one of these poops. Don’t forget to reapply the coconut oil after wiping!

Wanna know more about your baby’s poop?
Check out our poop guide guide here.