Seeing blood in your child's potty (latrine mein khoon) is scary, but don't panic - in most cases, it's caused by simple issues like anal fissures (small tears) or constipation that can be treated at home. However, blood in stool should never be ignored. While a tiny streak of bright red blood is often from a minor tear, dark or large amounts of blood need immediate medical attention. The good news: most causes in children are not serious and resolve with proper care.
What Causes Blood in a Child's Stool?
Watch: Always look for this early hunger cues.Do you feed your baby only after they start crying?
Most Common Causes (Usually Not Serious)
1. Anal Fissures (Guda mein daraar)
Small tears around the anus from passing hard stool
Most common cause in babies and toddlers
Causes bright red blood on stool surface or toilet paper
Baby may cry while passing stool
2. Constipation (Kabz)
Hard, dry stools strain the delicate anal tissue
Common in formula-fed babies, especially when switching formulas
Can happen when starting solid foods (6+ months)
3. Food Allergies/Intolerances
Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) - common in formula-fed babies
Can cause mucus and blood in stool
Baby may be fussy, have skin rashes, or refuse feeds
May need to switch to specialized formula like Similac Alimentum or Neocate
4. Infections (Stomach infection/Pet ka infection)
Bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections
Usually accompanied by diarrhea, fever, vomiting
Common in Indian monsoon season
Age-Specific Causes
Age Group
Common Causes
Newborn (0-1 month)
Swallowed maternal blood, milk protein allergy
1-6 months
CMPA, anal fissure, NEC (in preemies)
6-12 months
Fissures from starting solids, food allergies
1-3 years
Constipation, infections, polyps
3+ years
Constipation, infections, inflammatory conditions
Less Common but Serious Causes
Intussusception - Part of intestine folds into itself (emergency!)
Infections: Antibiotics or antiparasitic medicines
Food allergy: Elimination diet, specialized formula
Serious conditions: Specialist referral, possible procedures
Prevention Tips
Prevent constipation
Adequate fluids daily
High-fiber foods after 6 months
Regular mealtimes and potty routine
Proper formula preparation
Follow exact water-to-powder ratio
Use boiled, cooled water
Don't over-concentrate formula
Food hygiene
Wash hands before preparing food
Clean bottles and nipples properly
Store formula safely
Introduce foods carefully
One new food at a time
Wait 3 days between new foods
Watch for reactions
Expert Insight: As Dr. Sumitra says, 'Fed is best. Formula is a completely valid choice and provides excellent nutrition.'
FAQs
Q: My 2-month-old breastfed baby has small blood streaks in stool. Is this serious?
A: In breastfed babies, the most common cause is a small anal fissure or, sometimes, the baby swallowing blood from cracked nipples during feeding. Check your nipples for cracks. If baby is feeding well, gaining weight, and otherwise happy, it's likely not serious. However, for babies under 3 months, always consult a doctor to rule out cow's milk protein allergy (can pass through breastmilk) or other issues.
Q: We recently switched from Lactogen to NAN and now baby has blood in potty. What should we do?
A: Some babies react to formula changes. However, both NAN and Lactogen contain cow's milk protein, so if baby has CMPA, switching between regular formulas won't help. Consult your pediatrician - they may recommend an extensively hydrolyzed formula. Meanwhile, ensure you're preparing formula correctly (right water ratio, proper hygiene).
Q: My toddler passes very hard stool with blood. He cries while doing potty.
A: This is classic constipation with anal fissure. Increase water intake (at least 4-5 small cups daily), give high-fiber foods like papaya, prunes, and vegetables. Reduce maida-based foods, biscuits, and excess milk. Apply coconut oil around the anal area. If crying continues for more than a week despite these changes, see a doctor for stool softeners.
Q: Should I show the diaper to the doctor?
A: Yes! If possible, take a photo of the stool or bring the diaper to show the doctor. This helps them assess the amount, color, and type of blood, which is crucial for diagnosis.
Q: Can teething cause blood in stool?
A: No, teething does not directly cause blood in stool. However, during teething, babies may have slightly looser stools due to excess saliva swallowing. If you see blood, look for other causes like fissures or infection.
Q: My baby's stool is green with blood streaks. What does this mean?
A: Green stool can be normal in babies, especially breastfed ones. However, green stool with blood and mucus could indicate infection or food allergy. If baby also has fever, diarrhea, or is unwell, consult a doctor promptly.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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