Do babies poop while in the womb? And where does it go if they do?

Hi, and thanks for the question! Finally, one I can answer with authority!

Yes, they certainly can and do poop in there. The baby's first BM is called meconium, and it is a tarry, black, sticky substance.

If released in utero, it simply dissolves into the water, or amniotic fluid, giving it its characteristic greenish hue. About 30% or so of all babies will have pooped before birth, and special procedures are followed at delivery to be sure the baby doesn't have any in its airways.

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Please be advised that I am only a Poonurse. I am NOT a medical doctor. Any advice I give should be taken moderate skepticism. Please consult a REAL medical doctor if you feel you have a serious medical condition.

-- Poonurse [1]

Poonurse is an RN with 25 years experience in labor and delivery. Her qualifications include seeing a lot of poop, and owning a computer. Also, she works in Michigan, which she calls the asshole of the universe, so that's another bit of credibility. Got a question [2] for her?