Infant diarrhea: what you need to know

Infant diarrhea means your baby is pooping more often than usual and the stool is thinner or even watery. For young babies, especially those who are breastfed, poop is naturally looser. But there’s a difference between normal baby poop and diarrhea: with diarrhea, there’s often a sudden increase in frequency, the poop is runny or explosive, and it can be more than usual. Typically, normal infant stool is soft, sometimes grainy or mushy.

Diarrhea in infants often clears up on its own within a few days, but it’s important to keep a close eye on your baby. Babies are more susceptible to dehydration than older children or adults.

Explosive diapers can have many causes. The most common cause of infant diarrhea is a viral infection, also known as a stomach bug. These infections are highly contagious and can spread through contaminated water, spoiled food, or unwashed hands.

Other causes of diarrhea for infants include:

• Antibiotic use
• Food intolerances (like lactose, cow’s milk, or gluten)
• Developmental leaps (digestive systems reacting to stress or stimulation)
• Common cold viruses
• Teething

If your newborn has diarrhea, pay extra attention. Diarrhea in newborns can quickly lead to dehydration

Newborn stool is usually softer than that of older babies, so how can you tell if an infant has diarrhea? Watch for key changes: your baby may poop more frequently, pass yellow watery diarrhea, and you might notice a different smell. Explosive diapers (where stool shoots out forcefully and doesn’t stay in the diaper) are also a sign.

In addition to frequent, watery poop, your baby might show other signs of discomfort:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Slight fever or elevated temperature
• Belly cramps
• Fatigue or clinginess
• Cold-like symptoms
• Reduced appetite or drinking less

In most cases, diarrhea in infants is harmless and resolves on its own. Still, it’s essential to watch for symptoms and give your baby lots of care and comfort. Offer smaller, more frequent feedings, ensure proper hydration, and keep the environment calm. Clean the diaper area gently and use a barrier cream or zinc ointment to protect the skin. Avoid introducing new foods during this time. And if you’re unsure what your baby needs, reach out to your pediatrician or family health nurse.

A baby with diarrhea can quickly become dehydrated, especially if they’re also vomiting or have a fever. Babies lose fluids fast and don’t have large reserves. Pay close attention to signs of dehydration:

• Dry mouth or lips
• Fewer wet diapers than usual (fewer than 4–5 in 24 hours is a warning sign)
• No tears when crying
• Drowsiness or irritability
• Cold hands and feet
• Sunken soft spot (fontanelle) on the head

When in doubt, always consult your pediatrician. Parents often sense when something isn’t right. With dehydration, it’s better to check in one time too many than too late. If your baby seems overly sleepy, refuses to drink, or has dry diapers for several hours, seek help promptly.

Wash your hands more often
Infant diarrhea is often contagious, especially if caused by a virus or bacteria. Practicing good hand hygiene helps protect you and your family. Wash your hands thoroughly after each diaper change and before feeding.

Use diaper cream generously
The sensitive skin around your baby’s bottom can suffer from the acidity and moisture in diarrhea. Apply a thick layer of diaper cream or zinc ointment after every change. If the diarrhea is frequent, you may need to change diapers more often than usual.

Feed on demand
Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding, offer smaller amounts more frequently. Breast milk contains everything your baby needs to recover. For formula-fed babies, talk to your pediatrician about offering a bit of oral rehydration solution (ORS) temporarily.

Create a calm environment
A sick baby benefits from predictability. Keep the day quiet and structured. Let your baby sleep when they need to, and minimize stimulation. Rest is how babies heal.

Avoid medication without guidance
It may be tempting to give something to stop the diarrhea, but never give medication without first speaking to a healthcare professional. Infant diarrhea treatment should always be guided by a doctor, especially for young babies.

Call your pediatrician if:

• Your baby is under 3 months old and has diarrhea
• The diarrhea lasts longer than a few days
• There is blood or mucus in the stool
• Your baby also has a fever or is vomiting
• You notice signs of dehydration
• You simply have a bad feeling

Dealing with infant diarrhea can be exhausting, for both you and your baby. It can make you feel anxious and unsure. But you’re never alone. In our app, you can read about the experiences of other parents, learn what might be happening in your baby’s body, and find out whether a developmental leap might be contributing to the diarrhea. You’ll find helpful tips, reassurance, and support whenever you need it.