Why Do Newborns Cry During Urination in the First Months?

After birth, doctors carefully monitor a newborn’s bodily functions, and one of the most important signs is urination and bowel movements. Typically, a newborn urinates for the first time within the first 24 hours of life. If this doesn’t happen, a medical evaluation is necessary.

The first stool a newborn passes is called meconium, usually within the first 24–48 hours after birth. This process is vital and often accompanied by crying or discomfort. Pediatric and neonatology consultant Dr. Doaa Afif explains why babies often cry while urinating in their first three months and when this might be a cause for concern.

Why Do Newborns Cry During Urination?

Crying during urination in the first months is normal and not a cause for worry. Many babies also cry when passing stool. You may notice your newborn straining, tensing, and crying, whether during a diaper change or even while bathing.

This happens because:

• Newborns don’t understand the process of elimination.

• The sensation of a full bladder is uncomfortable for them.

• When they tighten their tiny abdominal and pelvic muscles to push out urine or stool, they may feel pain or fear, so they cry.

• Babies may also cry afterward simply because they feel wet and want their diaper changed.

Another reason could be skin irritation: if the diaper area isn’t rinsed well after bathing, soap or shampoo residue can mix with urine, causing stinging or discomfort. In such cases, clean only with water to prevent irritation.

Crying is usually stronger during bowel movements because a baby’s abdominal muscles are weak and not yet coordinated with the pelvic floor. The baby pushes hard, cries, and strains to increase pressure and complete the process. This improves naturally with age.

When Should Parents Be Concerned?

While crying alone is normal, watch for these warning signs:

• Changes in urine or stool color:

  • Dark yellow urine that looks concentrated.

  • Green stool, which may signal insufficient breast milk intake (not related to the mother’s diet).

• Fever: If your baby cries during every urination or bowel movement and also develops a fever, seek medical care—it could indicate infection.

• Blood in the diaper:

  • Blood in urine may suggest a urinary tract infection.

  • Blood in stool could indicate digestive issues or intestinal obstruction, especially if accompanied by vomiting, abdominal swelling, or difficulty breathing. Immediate medical evaluation is required.

⚠️ Never rely on home advice such as blaming “cold weather” for blood in stool. Always consult a pediatrician.

Should You Change the Diaper Immediately?

• During the day: If your baby continues to cry after urinating, feed first until satisfied, then change the diaper. This keeps your baby calm and allows you to maintain the natural cycle of feed–play–sleep.

• At night: Change the diaper before feeding. This minimizes stimulation and helps the baby fall back asleep quickly after feeding. Use dim lighting and keep the room quiet to create a soothing sleep environment.

✅ Key takeaway: Crying during urination or bowel movements in the first months is usually harmless. What matters is monitoring the baby’s urine, stool, temperature, and general behavior for signs of illness.