Dear mother, at 4 days of life passing stool after every feed can be normal transitional stool, but watery stools every time needs evaluation.
Newborns normally pass frequent stools - often 6-8 times per day, especially when trying to pass gas. After C-section, lactation may take 3-5 days to establish, so formula is understandable.
However watery stools after every feed in a 4-day-old newborn can quickly lead to dehydration and may indicate formula intolerance, incorrect dilution, infection or normal transitional stools. At this age baby is very vulnerable. The description of trying to pass gas but passing stool suggests immature gut control which is common, but watery nature needs to be checked.
Please do not try any home remedies or medicines for loose stools at this age on your own.
Next Steps
1. Please contact your pediatrician / visit hospital today itself for examination - baby needs to be checked for weight loss, dehydration, urine output and feeding technique.
2. Monitor urine output - baby should pass urine at least 5-6 times per day, check for dry mouth, sunken eyes, lethargy.
3. Continue exclusive breastfeeding attempts - put baby to breast frequently, skin-to-skin contact helps lactation. Take help from lactation counselor if available.
4. If giving formula, prepare exactly as per pack instructions with sterilized bottle, do not dilute extra.
5. If baby has fever, blood in stool, poor feeding, less urine, excessive crying or lethargy, go to emergency immediately.
Health Tips
Maintain hand hygiene and sterilize feeding bottles. Feed in upright position and burp after feeds. Do not give honey, water, gripe water or any over-the-counter medicine to 4-day-old baby without doctor's advice. Keep baby warm. Mother should take adequate fluids, rest and nutrition to support lactation