White Clumps in Baby's Stool: Is It Normal?

Suspected milk clot?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask a question.
Thank you.
My son was previously drinking a combination of breast milk and formula (Abbott's hydrolyzed formula), and his stools were relatively normal.
However, around four months old, we switched to Meiji formula, and now his stools have a sour smell.
Sometimes, there are white shapes resembling curds, and there seems to be quite a bit of it.
I'm wondering if this indicates malabsorption or if he is not adapting well to this formula.
Since we are about to start introducing solid foods, should I switch back to Abbott's hydrolyzed formula or continue to observe his condition? I hope you can provide some guidance.
Thank you very much.

Rui Ma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/12

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

It is normal for infants to have undigested white milk particles in their stool.
Symptoms of formula intolerance typically include vomiting, diarrhea, and rashes on the skin (excluding stool odor), so your situation is likely not due to formula intolerance.
You can continue to monitor the situation.

Reply Date: 2020/04/12

More Info

When it comes to the appearance of white clumps in a baby's stool, it can be concerning for parents, especially when transitioning from breastfeeding to formula feeding. In your case, your son has been experiencing changes in his stool after switching to a new formula, which has raised questions about whether this is normal or indicative of a problem.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that the digestive system of infants is still developing, and changes in stool consistency, color, and odor can occur frequently, especially during dietary transitions. White clumps in the stool can sometimes resemble undigested milk or formula, which may be a normal occurrence, particularly if the baby is consuming a formula that is different from what he was previously used to.
The presence of white clumps could be due to several factors:
1. Undigested Milk Proteins: If the formula is not being fully digested, it can lead to the appearance of white clumps in the stool. This can happen if the baby’s digestive system is still adjusting to the new formula.

2. Fat Content: Some formulas have higher fat content, which can also lead to the formation of clumps in the stool. This is especially true if the baby is not fully digesting the fats.

3. Normal Variation: In many cases, variations in stool appearance can be completely normal. Babies can have a range of stool colors and consistencies, and what you are observing may simply be a normal variation.

4. Allergic Reaction or Intolerance: If the baby is experiencing discomfort, excessive gas, or other gastrointestinal symptoms alongside the changes in stool, it might indicate a milk protein allergy or intolerance. In such cases, it would be advisable to consult a pediatrician.

5. Transition to Solid Foods: As you mentioned that you are starting to introduce solid foods, this can also affect stool consistency and appearance. The introduction of new foods can lead to changes in digestion and stool output.

Given that your baby has been on a new formula and is also transitioning to solid foods, it would be wise to monitor his overall health and behavior. If he seems comfortable, is feeding well, and is gaining weight appropriately, it may not be a cause for concern. However, if the white clumps persist, or if you notice any signs of distress, such as crying during bowel movements, changes in appetite, or unusual fussiness, it would be prudent to consult your pediatrician.

In terms of whether to switch back to the previous formula, it could be beneficial to observe your baby’s stool patterns for a little longer. If the white clumps continue and you have concerns about the new formula, discussing this with your pediatrician could help determine the best course of action. They may suggest a gradual reintroduction of the previous formula or recommend a different formula that might be better tolerated.

In conclusion, while the presence of white clumps in your baby's stool can be concerning, it is often a normal part of the digestive adjustment process. Close observation and consultation with a healthcare provider will ensure that your baby remains healthy and comfortable during this transition.

Similar Q&A

Mucus in Baby's Stool: What Parents Need to Know About Digestive Health

Dear Doctor: My daughter is almost two months old and is exclusively breastfed. She eats 5-6 times a day, about 100cc each time. After her first month, she had a bowel movement only once in about ten days. We used a rectal thermometer with petroleum jelly to help her pass stool, ...

Dr. Zhang Peixin reply Pediatrics
Hello: 1. If the characteristics of the stool are different from usual and the frequency has increased, it may indicate diarrhea, which could be related to a cold or occasionally to medication. Please consult a physician nearby based on the situation. 2. White particles in the st...

Understanding Your Baby's Yellowish Stool on Formula: What to Know

Hello doctor, my baby is currently over 4 months old and has started drinking formula. However, the stool appears yellow with white specks. What could be the reason for this?

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
White stool may simply be undigested milk particles, which is acceptable. However, if the stool becomes increasingly pale, please seek examination at a major hospital.

Understanding Your Baby's Stool: Common Concerns for New Parents

Dear Doctor: My sister is now over two months old and is consuming both breast milk and formula milk in a roughly 1:1 ratio, with each feeding being about 120cc to 150cc. She has bowel movements twice a day, with the first being a large, mushy stool and the second being smaller a...

Dr. Lin Huizhen reply Pediatrics
Dear New Mom, This is Dr. Lin Huizhen, the Chief of Pediatrics at Tainan Hospital, Department of Health. The presence of powdery stools in your baby is due to fat malabsorption, which is a common phenomenon in almost all infants. This usually decreases gradually after 3 to 4 mon...

Understanding Your Two-Month-Old's Stool Patterns: What’s Normal?

Hello doctor, my baby is almost three months old. He is primarily breastfed and only wakes up at night to have formula milk. His bowel movements are sometimes three to four times a day, and sometimes just once. They are usually loose and mushy, and occasionally watery. Is this fr...

Dr. He Shenglong reply Pediatrics
Hello: The baby is primarily breastfed and has formula milk at night. Currently, the baby has bowel movements three to four times a day, which are pasty and sometimes watery; the frequency and consistency are considered normal. The bile secreted by the liver mixes with the stool,...