Why is my poop pale or clay colored?

Pale or clay-colored poop usually means not enough bile is reaching your stool. Bile comes from the liver, is stored in the gallbladder, and normally gives poop its brown color.

Common causes include:

• A blocked bile duct from gallstones, narrowing, cysts, or a tumor
• Liver problems such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, or liver failure
• Gallbladder disease that affects bile release
• Recent barium contrast tests, which can make stool look pale for a few days
• Some medications, including high-dose aluminum hydroxide antacids and certain antibiotics

Get medical care promptly if pale stool happens with:

• Yellow skin or eyes
• Dark urine
• Right upper belly pain
• Fever or chills
• Ongoing nausea or vomiting

Pale stool is not normal, so it should be checked by a healthcare professional.