Symptom Checker

Blood in a Child's Stool

Blood in a child’s stool means visible red, maroon or black blood appears with a bowel movement. It may sit on the outside of the stool, mix through it or change the stool color.

Constipation and small anal tears are common causes of bright red blood. Infections, intestinal inflammation, polyps and other digestive conditions can also cause bleeding.

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AAP Guide to Blood in a Child's Stool

The AAP guide below explains common causes and which types of bleeding need medical evaluation.

AAP Symptom CheckerBlood in stool

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

Bleeding happens more than once.
Blood is mixed throughout the stool or occurs with diarrhea.
Your child has significant abdominal pain or fever.
The stool is black and tarry.
Your child appears ill or you are unsure where the blood came from.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

Bleeding is heavy.
Your child becomes weak, faint or very difficult to wake.
Severe abdominal pain or another life-threatening symptom develops.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

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When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

Blood in a Child's Stool

AAP Guide to Blood in a Child's Stool

When to see a doctor

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

More on stomach and bowels