Genie Chat
Genie Chat
Bringing a newborn home is filled with excitement and love but can also be overwhelming. One of the biggest tasks you’ll face as a new parent is dealing with lots of nappies!
In the first few weeks, you might change nappies more times a day than you ever imagined. In this blog, we will cover what to expect, what’s important, and how to make the nappy-changing process as smooth as possible.
In the first 24 to 48 hours after birth, your baby’s stools will look slightly different from what you might expect. Instead of the usual yellow or brown, you’ll see a dark, sticky, tar-like substance called meconium. Meconium is your baby’s first poop, made up of everything they ingested while in the womb, like amniotic fluid and skin cells. It’s completely normal and a vital sign that your baby’s digestive system is working.
You’ll likely change a few meconium nappies before your baby’s poop starts to change in colour and texture. Don’t be alarmed by its appearance—it will change within 48-72 hours.
Once the meconium is out of your baby’s system, their poop will gradually change. If you’re breastfeeding, the poop will likely turn into a mustard-yellow colour with a seedy texture. It’s soft and can sometimes be watery, which is entirely normal. Breastfed babies tend to have poop that smells milder than that of formula-fed babies.
For babies who are formula-fed, their poop might be a bit more brown or green and a little firmer in texture. It will be soft but won’t have that same seedy appearance as breastfed babies’ poop.
In the first few weeks postpartum, expect to change a lot of nappies! Newborns can go through 8 to 12 nappies a day. Frequent nappy changes are essential for keeping your baby comfortable and preventing nappy rash.
Babies pee often—sometimes every one to three hours—because their bladders are tiny and they’re constantly eating. Newborns may poop right after feeding or during a feed. Always be prepared for a nappy change at any moment.
Knowing when to change your baby’s nappy can take a little practice, but there are some telltale signs to look for:
Wet nappies: Many nappies have a line or indicator that changes colour when wet. If the line is blue, it’s time for a change. You can also feel the nappy to see if it’s heavier than usual.
Dirty nappies: It’s pretty easy to tell when your baby has pooped—there will usually be a smell, and your baby might get a bit fussy.
Changing your baby’s nappy frequently is essential to avoid skin irritation or nappy rash.
Even with frequent nappy changes, many babies eventually develop nappy rash. The rash can appear red, irritated skin on your baby’s bottom. It’s common in the first few weeks as their sensitive skin adjusts to constant wetness and friction from the nappy.
Here are a few tips to help prevent and treat diaper rash:
Change nappies often: Keeping your baby’s skin dry and clean is the best way to prevent diaper rash.
Use a barrier cream: Apply a thick layer of diaper rash cream or petroleum jelly after each nappy change to protect your baby’s skin from moisture.
Nappy-Free: If possible, let your baby’s bottom air out for a few minutes daily. This can help dry out any irritation.
Choose the right size: A nappy that is too tight can cause rubbing and lead to diaper rash. Ensure your baby’s nappies fit snugly but aren’t tight around the legs or waist.
If the nappy rash doesn’t improve after a few days or worsens, consult your maternal child health nurse or doctor for further advice.
While every baby is different, knowing what’s normal and what could be a sign of something wrong is essential. For example, it’s normal for babies to have a wide range of colours in their poop, from yellow and brown to green. However, if you notice blood in your baby’s poop, it’s essential to call your doctor.
If your baby isn’t having enough wet or dirty nappies, it could be a sign that they’re not eating enough. In the first few weeks, your baby should have 6 to 8 wet nappies daily. If you’re concerned about the number of nappies or if your baby seems dehydrated, contact your healthcare provider.
Many parents find tracking nappy changes in the first few weeks helpful. Keeping track of how often your baby pees and poops can help you feel more confident that they’re getting enough food. You can use a simple notebook or a tracking app on your phone to log each nappy change. You can download a sleep, feed and nappy tracker from Parenting Genie for a smoother journey.
Changing nappies might not be the most glamorous part of parenting. Here are a few tips that can do to make the process smoother:
Keep supplies handy: When changing your baby, always have plenty of nappies, wipes, and cream within arm’s reach. This will prevent you from scrambling mid-change.
Use a nappy bin: A designated nappy bin can make clean-up easier and help keep your space smelling fresh.
Be gentle: When wiping your baby, always wipe from front to back to prevent the spread of bacteria, especially for girls.
Distract your baby: Newborns are often calm during nappy changes, but they might start to squirm as they grow. A soft toy or a little song can help keep your baby entertained.
The first few weeks postpartum are a whirlwind of new experiences, and nappies are a big part of that. While it may seem overwhelming initially, nappy changes will quickly become second nature. Just remember to keep your baby clean, comfortable, and dry; you’ll both feel better. And don’t worry—every parent goes through this stage, and you’ll soon be a nappy-changing pro!
For more support and guidance on newborn care, consider booking a consultation with Parenting Genie. Our parenting live experts are here to help you navigate the ups and downs of early parenthood. We offer everything from Zoom consultations to 24/7. Telehealth and Genie Chat for instant advice. You don’t have to go through this alone—Parenting Genie is here to support you every step of the way.
Raising Children has additional tips on nappies in the first few weeks of birth.
