Blood in Baby’s Stool? 5 Possible Causes and How to Respond

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Possible Reasons For Blood in a Baby’s Stool

First of all, it’s completely understandable that you’re concerned. Good job taking your baby to the doctor! Since you were sent home without a diagnosis, it’s likely the doctor ruled out any severe or immediate concerns. Understanding where in the digestive system each issue originates can help explain different symptoms and blood appearances.

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The baby’s digestive system is delicate and still developing. Problems in different areas — from the stomach to the intestines — can sometimes cause blood to appear in stools. For instance, allergies or infections may cause inflammation in the intestines, while swallowed blood from cracked nipples would travel all the way through the digestive tract.

Here are a number of reasons why there might be blood in a baby’s poop:

1. Anal Fissures from Constipation

Blood in a baby’s stool is often not an emergency. One of the most common causes is constipation, which can lead to anal fissures (small tears in the anus) as a result of straining with hard stools. These small tears may cause bright red blood in the diaper. You may notice the blood streaked on the stool or on the baby wipe.

What to Do:
If constipation seems to be the cause, make sure your baby stays hydrated, and if you’ve introduced solid foods, include fiber-rich options like pureed pears or prunes to soften stools. Check with your pediatrician about safe ways to relieve constipation if it’s a recurring issue.

2. Food Allergies

Food allergies, particularly to cow’s milk and soy protein, are another common cause of blood in infants’ stools. Even breastfed babies may experience reactions to these proteins if the mother consumes them regularly. Symptoms of a food allergy can include blood in the stool, mucus, and sometimes other signs of discomfort.

What to Do:
If you suspect a food allergy, consult your pediatrician about eliminating certain foods from your diet (if breastfeeding) or switching to a hypoallergenic formula. Common allergens are cow’s milk, soy, and occasionally egg or wheat.

3. Foremilk Imbalance (Oversupply)

If you’re breastfeeding and have a strong milk supply, your baby may be getting too much foremilk (the watery milk at the start of a feeding) and not enough hindmilk (the richer, more fatty milk at the end). Excess foremilk can lead to lactose overload, which irritates the intestines and sometimes causes blood-tinged stools.

What to Do:
Try feeding from one breast per feeding session to ensure your baby receives more hindmilk. Discuss any concerns with a lactation consultant or your doctor to help manage oversupply.

4. Infections

Some bacterial infections, such as E. coli, Salmonella, or Shigella, can lead to blood and mucus in a baby’s poop. In these cases, additional symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and sometimes vomiting are often present.

What to Do:
If your baby has blood in the stool along with these symptoms, contact your pediatrician promptly. Infections may require specific treatments and can be more serious in young infants.

5. Intussusception

Intussusception is a rare but serious condition in which part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part, creating a blockage. It can cause severe pain and lead to blood and mucus in the stool, often described as “jelly-like”. This condition requires immediate medical attention, but the main sign is usually intense, intermittent pain rather than just blood in the stool.

What to Do:
If you notice a jelly-like stool with blood, especially if your baby appears to be in pain or has other concerning symptoms, seek emergency medical care right away.

Understanding the Color of Blood in a Baby’s Stool

The color of the blood in your baby’s stool can help provide clues about the underlying cause:

Bright Red: Fresh, bright red blood may indicate an anal tear from constipation. In some cases, it may also point to a milk protein allergy if it appears with normal (not hard) stools. Bright red blood with diarrhea could suggest a bacterial infection.

Dark Red or Black (Tarry): If the blood is darker, it’s more likely from higher up in the digestive system. Black, tarry “poppy seeds” suggest digested blood, which can sometimes happen if a breastfed baby swallows blood from cracked nipples. Large amounts of black or dark red blood may indicate a more serious issue that needs medical attention.

Jelly-Like, Dark Red or Bright Red: Stool with a jelly-like texture and blood can indicate intussusception or other infections. This appearance warrants an immediate visit to the emergency room.

When to See the Doctor Again:

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If you see blood in your baby’s stool and it’s not due to constipation or if it’s paired with other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or pain, visit a doctor for further evaluation. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, seek a second opinion. Pediatricians are there to help you understand and support your child’s health.

In Summary:

Blood in a baby’s stool can be alarming, but the cause is often mild and manageable. However, it’s essential to monitor the situation closely and consult a pediatrician if the blood persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.

Good luck, and remember: as a parent, you know your baby best. Don’t hesitate to advocate for further answers if you’re concerned.

Read Next

• Baby Not Pooping: How To Tell If They’re Constipted
• Baby Urinating Blood
• Blood Found In The Diaper – Possible Reasons
• Baby Poop Colors That May Actually Be Normal (Stool Color Chart Included)

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Research References

Note: This information is intended to provide a general understanding and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for concerns about your baby’s health.

Paula Dennholt

Paula Dennholt founded Easy Baby Life in 2006 and has been a passionate parenting and pregnancy writer since then. Her parenting approach and writing are based on studies in cognitive-behavioral models and therapy for children and her experience as a mother and stepmother. Life as a parent has convinced her of how crucial it is to put relationships before rules. She strongly believes in positive parenting and a science-based approach.

Paula cooperates with a team of pediatricians who assist in reviewing and writing articles.