How Many Bowel Movements Should My Newborn Have?

There is a lot of variation in bowel movements. Initially bowel movements are greenish black (called meconium), and then they transition to the more watery yellow color. Many babies will have approximately 4-8 bowel movements a day, however, some will have more than 10 a day and others will have one only every few days. 

It is common for bowel movements to sometimes be brownish, greenish, and grayish, in addition to the typical soft yellow. If bowel movements are pebble-like, this is likely caused by constipation. Contact your pediatrician if you notice constipation or if you see blood or significant mucus in the bowel movements.