Urate Crystals in a Baby's Diaper
Urate crystals cause orange or red spots on a baby's diaper that could be mistaken for blood, but they are usually not cause for concern.Medically reviewed by Lyndsey Garbi, MD Medically reviewed by Lyndsey Garbi, MD If you've noticed a reddish-orange stain on your baby's diaper, it's understandable to worry that it is bloody stool. However, what you're seeing is likely urate crystals in your newborn's diaper. Typically, urate crystals in a diaper have a drier, thinner texture and color than blood.While it's important to make sure it isn't blood, the brick-colored stain of urate crystals is common and usually harmless in newborns. Learn more about what urate crystals in a diaper are, why they might appear in your newborn's diapers, and when they could be a reason for concern.
Science Photo Library - RUTH JENKINSON / Brand X Pictures / Getty Images' title='Person changing baby's diaper'>
Science Photo Library - RUTH JENKINSON / Brand X Pictures / Getty Images
Symptoms of Urate Crystals in a DiaperYou might suspect urate crystals if you notice the following:An orange or red brick colorA stain-like appearance over the urine in a diaperThe stain has a thin, chalky textureYou can typically tell the difference between urate crystals and blood because blood has a more vivid red color and a more viscous, thicker consistency. Blood also smells metallic, while urate crystals smell like urine.Though they might be scary, seeing urate crystals in a diaper is very common, especially during a baby's first few days when they might still be losing weight (losing weight is normal and expected at this time), but they may be found in babies who are gaining weight as well. They do not harm your baby and do not indicate anything dangerous is going on. However, they are most prevalent in breastfed babies.
Related: Constipation in Babies: Symptoms, Causes, and Cures
What Causes Urate Crystals?Urate crystals are a by-product of concentrated urine. They are made up of uric acid, an end product of normal metabolism. Babies are born with a high blood uric acid level because of the amount they receive in utero through the placenta, and this is quickly excreted in the urine and stool.If a baby is not making much urine at this time, these urate crystals will be especially concentrated and easy to see. This does not always mean, however, that your baby is dehydrated.What to Expect in a Newborn's Diaper: Baby Poop Color and TextureDuring a breastfed baby's first five days, the number of wet diapers should match your baby's day of life (so two wet diapers on day two, three wet diapers on day three, and so on). It can take up to four days (or sometimes even longer) for breast milk to come in, and once it does, your baby's diaper count will likely go up.Here is what to expect in the first week:Day Two: Expect at least two wet diapers and two bowel movements that are likely still thick, tarry, and black (meconium).Day Three: A baby should have at least three wet diapers and three bowel movements, with the bowel movements becoming looser and greenish to yellow in color (transitional stools).Day Five: Expect at least five wet diapers and five yellow, soft, and watery bowel movements.If your baby has fewer wet diapers than expected, get your baby evaluated by a health care provider right away to check their weight and to see if they are feeding well.When breastfeeding, a lactation consultant can evaluate your milk supply and make sure your baby is latching on and sucking well. If your baby is on infant formula, check that you are preparing it correctly and that they are eating enough each day.
Related: Common Causes of Bloody Stool in Babies and What to Do
When Urate Crystals Indicate a ProblemMost of the time, urate crystals in a baby's diaper in the first week of life are normal. During this time the crystals are harmless, a problem only because they can cause parents to fear there is a something wrong or newborns must undergo unnecessary tests looking for blood in the urine.Here is when to contact a health care provider about urate crystals:Urate crystals that persist for longer than three days When urate crystals appear beyond the first week of lifeIf you feel unsure whether they are urate crystals or bloodUrate crystals that last longer than a few days could be a sign of dehydration and indicate that your baby isn't getting enough milk. Rarely, urate crystals, especially those present in a child beyond the first week of life, could signify a serious condition such as kidney dysfunction or other metabolic disorders that result in hyperuricemia. Consult a health care provider if you have any concerns or questions about seeing urate crystals in your baby's diaper. For more Parents news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter! Read the original article on Parents.
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