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3,000 Diapers
Thursday, July 12, 2012 by Jeannie Fleming-Gifford from Child Development
If someone would have told me that I would be changing 3,000 diapers during that first year, I'm not sure I would have enthusiastically signed up for this journey called parenthood.
3,000 diapers? Yes, it's true. If you are just beginning this journey, that IS the fact. Estimates are, you will be changing 3,000 diapers during your baby's first year.
That is a lot of diapers. And, that is a lot of poop (luckily, you'll see more pee than poop which is often a bit easier to "handle").
Do you have the scoop on diapering and all the joy that comes along with it? If you are a new mama or daddy, you may be a bit bewildered at the sights and smells - sorry - that will greet you during each diaper change.
What's normal? Generally anything is normal unless there looks to be blood in the poop or urine. And black poop? Yep, you may see it, especially in your newborn. Don't. Panic.
What's not normal? If blood is in the stool or urine, or poop takes on a light color, like pale tan. These symptoms may signal an issue.
Not sure? Pick up the phone and give your pediatrician a buzz. Talk to them about what you're seeing and package up a diaper to take in for "show and tell."
As your munchkin grows, don't be surprised if their poop changes too. Once you begin introducing new foods, you may see a change in consistency and in color.
Still have questions? Looking for more answers? Check out this great video clip put together by the American Academy of Pediatrics that will give you "The Scoop on Poop."
Parenthood and your developing child. Isn't it wonderful?
Jeannie Fleming-Gifford
Jeannie Fleming-Gifford is a mama to one little lady, freelance writer, and the director of education for a non-profit community school of the arts. Graduating with a B.A. in Music and a M.A. in Child Development, Jeannie began her career in quality child developme...Read More
