Can a new born baby pass faeces immidiately after birth
What a great question!
In most cases, a newborn baby does not pass feces immediately after birth. In fact, it's quite common for newborns to not have their first bowel movement, also known as meconium, until several hours or even days after birth.
Here's why:
- Meconium: Meconium is a thick, dark greenish-black stool that is present in the baby's intestines from the time of conception. It's made up of waste products that the baby ingested while in the womb, such as bile and other substances. Meconium is usually passed within the first few days of life, but it can take up to 48 hours or more for the baby to pass their first stool.
- Intestinal development: The intestines of a newborn baby are still developing and maturing. It takes some time for the muscles in the intestines to contract and push stool through the anus. This process can take several hours or days.
- Hormonal influences: Hormones, such as gastrin and cholecystokinin, play a role in regulating bowel movements. These hormones are still developing in the newborn baby and may not be fully active until later in life.
However, in some cases, a newborn baby may pass a small amount of stool, known as "physiological stool," shortly after birth. This is usually a thin, yellowish liquid that is a result of the baby's first bowel movement, which can occur within the first few hours of life.
It's important to note that if a newborn baby has not passed stool within 24-48 hours of life, it's not necessarily a cause for concern. Breastfed babies, in particular, may not have their first bowel movement until 3-4 days after birth. If you have concerns about your baby's bowel movements, it's always best to consult with your pediatrician.