Baby Ear Discharge: Causes & When to See a GP | Parenting Hub
Discharge from baby's ear can be wax, fluid from a burst eardrum, or infection. Learn how to tell them apart and when to seek care.
A small amount of soft yellow wax is normal. Pus, blood or watery fluid from baby's ear needs a same-day GP check.
Normal ear wax
Babies make wax — it protects the ear canal. It's usually soft, yellow or light brown, and clears itself. Never use cotton buds in baby's ear; they push wax deeper and can damage the eardrum.
What's not normal
See your GP today if you see:
- Yellow or green pus
- Watery fluid (could be from a burst eardrum after an ear infection)
- Blood
- A bad smell from the ear
- Discharge with fever, pain or pulling at the ear
Burst eardrum
When middle-ear pressure from an infection gets too high, the eardrum can perforate and release pus. It sounds alarming but usually relieves pain quickly. Eardrums heal on their own in 1–2 weeks, but baby still needs a GP review and often antibiotics.
Care at home
Until you see the GP:
- Keep the outer ear clean and dry — wipe with a soft cloth
- Don't put anything in the ear canal
- Avoid getting water in the ear at bath time
- Give weight-appropriate paracetamol for pain if needed
When to seek urgent care
Discharge with high fever, baby unwell or drowsy, swelling or redness behind the ear (mastoiditis) — emergency department immediately.
When to seek help
- Pus, blood or watery fluid from the ear
- Redness or swelling behind the ear
- High fever or baby looks unwell
- Severe pain or inconsolable crying
Common questions
Can I clean inside baby's ear?
No. Never use cotton buds inside the canal. Wipe only the outer ear with a soft damp cloth.
Will a burst eardrum affect hearing?
Usually no — most heal within 1–2 weeks with no lasting effect. Your GP will follow up to check it has closed.