Mythbusters: Babies

Myth #1: Babies sleep 14-18 hours per day

Do a Google search to find out how many hours the "experts" say that babies sleep each day and you'll find estimates that range anywhere from 14 to 18 hours.  Claire seems to be a normal baby by all accounts and she sleeps nowhere near that long.  In fact, I would say that she is awake about 14 hours a day.

Myth #2: Babies' poop does not stink

While newborn babies rely on formula and/or breastmilk for nutrition, their poop is not completely odorless; however, it does not have even near the pungent smell that poop has when they begin eating regular food.  It's kind of surprising actually.

Myth #3: Parents of babies talk about poop a lot

When a baby is crying, her parents do their best to figure out what is bothering her.  Is she hungry, sleepy, gassy or just a bit backed up?  That leads to some regular discussion of poop.  Also, there's always the opportunity to "read the tea leaves" or in this case, "read the poop" for clues on baby's condition.

Background Note: Mythbusters is a program on the Discovery Channel that uses scientific research to test the validity of various rumors and myths in popular culture.