10/27/2025
π¨π© The P**p Files: A Pediatrician's Guide for Parents! π©πΆ
Hey Lancaster Parents! π Ever wonder if what's in your child's diaper or toilet is... normal? At The Children's Clinic PA, we know parents spend a lot of time thinking about p**p! It's actually a great clue about your little one's health.
Let's decode those mysterious deposits together!
π Color Guide: Is This Shade Okay?
Most colors are fine, but a few are red flags!
π Yellow / Mustard: Super common for breastfed babies!
π€ Tan / Brown / Green: The most frequent colors. Green can be from iron supplements or even fast digestion.
π€ Black / Dark Brown: Normal for newborn "meconium" or after dark foods/iron.
π¨ CALL US if you see:
βͺ Chalky White or Clay-Colored (This is a serious red flag!)
β« Black & Tarry (If your child is NOT a newborn AND NOT taking iron supplements)
π΄ Bright Red Blood (More than just a tiny streak)
π§ Consistency: Soft, Hard, or Runny?
Think of it like peanut butter for a happy gut β soft, smooth, and easy to pass!
π₯£ Seedy & Runny: Perfectly normal for breastfed babies.
π₯ Soft & Pastelike: Typical for formula-fed babies.
πͺ¨ Hard Pellets: Often a sign of constipation!
Tip: Boost water & fiber! If it lasts >2-3 days, give us a call!
π¦ Watery/Liquid: Usually diarrhea. Hydration is KEY!
Call us IMMEDIATELY if you see signs of dehydration (fewer wet diapers, no tears, super sleepy).
β±οΈ Frequency: How Often Is "Normal"?
This varies A LOT from child to child!
For Babies:
Breastfed: Can p**p after every feeding initially, OR go 7-10 days without a p**p once a few weeks old! Both are normal.
Formula-fed: Typically 1-4 times a day.
For Toddlers & Kids: Anywhere from 3 times a day to once every 3 days is normal, as long as it's soft and easy to pass!
π¨ When to Call The Children's Clinic PA IMMEDIATELY!
We're always here for your questions, but don't delay calling us if you see any of these:
Signs of Dehydration (Lethargy, no tears, very few wet diapers)
Projectile Vomiting + Diarrhea
Chalky White or Clay-Colored Stool
Significant Bright Red Blood in stool
Black & Tarry Stool (in an older infant/child not on iron)
Severe Stomach Pain that doesn't go away
Remember: You've got this, parents! P**p is a normal (if sometimes stinky!) part of life. Use this guide, trust your gut, and never hesitate to reach out to us if you're worried.
π Call us at 803-289-KIDS (5437)
π» Visit our website: https://childrensclinicpa.com/?page_id=1238
**pGuide
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