Diaper & Output
Urate Crystals (Brick Dust in Diaper)
Urate crystals appear as pink, red, or orange powdery/sandy substance in newborn's diaper - looks like brick dust or salmon-colored stain. Very common in first few days of life (especially days 2-4).
Caused by concentrated urine when baby isn't getting much fluid yet (only colostrum). Urate crystals are normal and harmless in first week. Should disappear once milk comes in and baby is well-hydrated.
Parents often panic thinking it's blood - it's NOT blood, just concentrated uric acid crystals.
What to Do
- Understand this is normal in first few days - not a cause for concern
- Increase feeding frequency to improve hydration (nurse every 2-3 hours)
- Count wet diapers to ensure adequate intake (should increase daily)
- By day 5-7: Crystals should disappear as milk supply increases and baby is better hydrated
- If breastfeeding: Keep nursing frequently - milk supply is still coming in
- If formula feeding: Ensure baby is getting adequate amounts for age
- Watch for other dehydration signs: dark urine, fewer wet diapers, dry mouth
- Don't confuse with blood - urate crystals are powdery/sandy, blood is liquid/smeared
When to call a doctor
Urate crystals are normal in first 5-7 days. Call doctor if crystals continue beyond first week, baby has fewer than 6 wet diapers per day after day 5, or baby shows dehydration signs (dry mouth, sunken soft spot, no tears).