It's not uncommon for parents, especially first-timers, to be surprised by what they find when changing their baby's diaper. Alongside unexpected poop colors and consistencies, seeing white, clear, or even bloody discharge from a newborn baby's vagina can be alarming. However, this phenomenon is often normal and common, typically ceasing by around 10 days old.
During pregnancy, high levels of estrogen and progesterone in the birthing parent's body cross the placenta and reach the baby, aiding in proper development. After birth, the sudden drop in these hormones triggers a response in babies with vaginas, leading to white and sometimes bloody discharge.
Additionally, exposure to end-of-pregnancy hormones can cause swollen tissue around the nipples in newborns of both sexes, sometimes resulting in breast milk discharge.
Newborn vaginal discharge usually resolves on its own within the first 10 days. However, parents should contact a healthcare provider if it persists beyond two weeks or becomes yellow or foul-smelling, as this may indicate an infection.
Other genital concerns parents may notice include visible swelling of the labia and clitoris, which is normal due to hormonal shifts. Labial adhesions, though rare, can occur and are usually resolved with proper hygiene or, in severe cases, with medical intervention.
Parents may also come across urate crystals in their baby's diaper, which are normal but could indicate dehydration if they persist beyond the first few days of life.
Cleaning a baby's vagina should be done gently with warm water or a wet wipe, avoiding scrubbing or attempting to clean inside the vagina. Remember, the vagina is self-cleaning, and excess fluid will be absorbed by the diaper.
Overall, understanding these common occurrences and knowing when to seek medical advice can help parents navigate the early days of caring for their newborn's genital health.
