toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Meconium

Meconium is a thick, greenish black substance that forms in the intestines of a fetus. As the fetus swallows and digests the fluid (amniotic fluid) inside the uterus, it produces meconium.

Meconium in the amniotic fluid may be a sign that the newborn experienced stress before birth. If meconium gets into the baby's lungs, it can cause irritation and inflammation of the lungs.

When the baby is born, meconium is the first stool the baby passes. Most newborns pass the meconium within 48 hours after birth.

If your baby doesn't pass their first stool within the usual time frame, it may be a sign of a blocked intestine or another problem. Your baby may need treatment to remove the stool from the body.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.