Is It Normal for Newborns to Have Diarrhea?

Question

Does it seem normal for a newborn to have diarrhea multiple times a day after feeding?

Answer

Breastfed infants may have more frequent diarrhea, which is usually due to the oligosaccharides in breast milk stimulating gastrointestinal motility. As long as the baby is in good spirits, feeds normally, gains weight steadily, and does not have difficulty defecating, abdominal pain, or bloating, there is no need to worry too much. As the baby grows older, the frequency of bowel movements typically decreases.