Which substance is the first feces of a newborn called?

The first feces of a newborn is called meconium. This substance is unique because it is composed of materials that the fetus ingests while in the womb, including amniotic fluid, bile, and cellular debris. Meconium is typically thick, dark green, and sticky, providing a distinctive appearance that differs markedly from regular stool. It is important for medical professionals to recognize meconium as it is an indicator of the newborn's health; the passage of meconium shortly after birth is a normal sign that the gastrointestinal tract is functioning properly. Other terms like stool, droppings, and excreta refer to fecal matter more generally and do not specifically denote the unique characteristics of a newborn's first feces.