Constipation happens when your baby’s stools are hard and dry. Constipation can make it difficult for your child to have bowel movements. And in some cases, constipation can be painful. Constipation is common when babies are switching from milk to solid food. Many parents believe switching from breast milk to solid food will prevent constipation, but that isn’t the case.
What Can You Do if Your Baby is Constipated?
Every baby is different, and this includes how frequently they poop. The term “normal” covers a vast spectrum. Some infants poop right after feeding. Some people will only poop occasionally. As long as your infant is content and healthy, it doesn’t matter how frequently they poop. While the quantity of poop is unimportant, you can ask your baby’s doctor or a child health nurse for guidance if they notice any discomfort while attempting to poop or if the poop is very hard or dry. A shift in nutrition is one of the primary reasons for infant constipation. A nutrition shift could involve:
- converting from formula feeding
- not getting enough fluid after being breastfed,
- being exposed to different meals and flavors (breastmilk, formula, or water)
- Contrary to breastfed infants, bottle-fed infants are more likely to experience diarrhea.
Lack of fiber in your baby’s diet after consuming solids may also contribute to constipation. Even with a healthy diet and enough fluid intake, some infants are predisposed to diarrhea. Being prone to diarrhea does not imply they are ill or in poor condition. Thyroid conditions, nerve conditions, conditions that affect the spinal cord, and other metabolic conditions can also cause infant constipation. These conditions are typically not a cause for worry because all infants are examined for these conditions. However, you should seek medical guidance if you have concerns about your child or observe that they are having difficulty pooping.
If you give newborn formula to your baby, ensure the water-to-formula ratio is accurate by measuring the water first and then adding the granules. Offer additional beverages if your infant is mature enough to consume water. (boiled and cooled first). Your infant may feel better with a moderate massage to help manage the discomfort of constipation. Gently knead their tummy to help activate the bowels. Your infant can feel better and be more relaxed after taking warm baths. Add more fruits and veggies to your baby’s diet if they are older than six months old to increase their fiber consumption. If your kid is older than nine months, supplementing their dinner with stewed prunes or apricots may be beneficial. Three times a week, they may consume up to three teaspoons. Bran-containing cereal may also ease minor diarrhea. Older infants can try prune juice mixed with water. (half prune juice and half water). Begin with 10 milliliters and go steadily. As soon as they can do a smooth discharge, increase as necessary.
If Your Child Struggles With Chronic Constipation, Schedule an Appointment With Advanced Pediatrics of Rockland.
Constipation is typical. Frequently, it will pass on its own or with the aid of the tactics mentioned above. Advanced Pediatrics of Rockland doctors can assist you if you’re concerned that your infant is constipated, unpleasant, or in pain. To make an appointment with Dr. Andrew Satran, call (845) 364-9800.
