Question
My newborn has started passing black stool on the 25th day, and it was always yellow before, fed exclusively on breast milk. Besides meconium, how long does a newborn’s black stool last? What should I do about my baby’s condition?
Answer
If your baby is full-term, they typically start to defecate within 24 hours after birth, and it usually happens once a day, lasting for about 23 days. However, if the baby is premature, defecation may be delayed and last longer. According to the information you provided, your baby is already 25 days old, and the stool has turned from yellow to black. This situation requires attention to the possibility of dyspepsia or gastrointestinal bleeding. It is recommended that mothers maintain a balanced diet, consume enough protein and vitamins, and avoid eating animal blood and liver in recent days. At the same time, you should closely observe your baby’s stool condition. If black stool persists, it is advisable to visit the pediatric clinic of the hospital for further examination, such as a routine stool test, to obtain a clear diagnosis.