Diarrhoea (Babies)

Diarrhoea is when a baby has frequent unformed watery stools (poo). If they have diarrhoea and sickness together this is called gastroenteritis.

Q. Why is this a problem?
A. If your baby has diarrhoea or gastroenteritis for more than a few hours they can become dehydrated from losing too much fluid.

Q. How do I know if my baby is dehydrated?
A. The baby may be lethargic/floppy. Baby may have a dry mouth, their skin may seem loose and the eyes and soft spot (fontanelle) on the top of the head may seem sunken. They may not pass much urine (wee). Seek medical advice if you have any doubts.

Q. How do I prevent this or treat it?
A. To prevent or treat dehydration your baby needs extra fluids. You can get special solutions from the chemist. These are called rehydration fluids. Names you may see are Dioralyte, Rehidrat or Electrolade.

If the diarrhoea continues for more than a few hours or your baby is also vomitting (being sick) then contact your GP or us urgently for advice.

Q. So, for mild diarrhoea what should I do?
A. Give extra fluids between feeds or after each watery stool. Oral rehydration fluids are best.
Don't stop breastfeeding - give the extra fluids in addition to the milk.
Don't stop formula feeding - give extra fluids and normal feeds. Donot alter the strength of the milk.

Q. What should I do if it's more severe?
A. Don't stop breastfeeding - give oral rehydration fluids as well as the breastfeed.
Stop formula feeds and give oral rehydration fluids for 3-4 hours, then resume normal formula feeds.

Ask us or your GP for advice. Normally we donot advise stopping formula feeds for 24 hours as we once used to. If your baby is unwell or has watery diarrhoea for more than one day seek medical advice straight away.