Constipation in babies is often a cause of worry but most cases which many parents consider to be constipation is really not constipation. When babies try to stool and they strain or cry most parents start to worry about constipation.
A true sign of constipation is the passage of hard stool. When babies pass stool, they may strain or cry while trying to pass stool and this is usually normal and is as a result of their immature organs. As baby’s organs develop and as they get used to the act of passing stool they will start passing stool effortlessly.
So, as long as baby passes a soft stool, baby is not constipated even if they become cranky and uncomfortable when trying to pass stool
Secondly, babies especially exclusively breastfed babies can go a couple of days and sometimes up to a week without passing stool, this is also normal as the body uses up the breastmilk leaving little or nothing to waste.
Thirdly, certain practices like inserting warm water or balm into baby’s anus may worsen constipation in the long run because when you insert stuff into baby’s anus the developing organs in the baby start to depend on the things you insert in the anus and without inserting these things into the anus, baby will find it more difficult to pass stool with time
What are the causes of constipation in babies:
- Starting baby on solids the wrong way (learn how to offer solids here)
- Inadequate breastmilk intake
- A recent reduction in food intake; The quantity of food you eat will determine whether or not stool will be formed
- When you don’t follow the manufacturer’s instructions when mixing formula; offering formula that’s too concentrated can lead to constipation
- Uderlying medical conditions can result in constipation
Symptoms of constipation:
- Baby may strain but when they eventually pass stool, the stool will be hard and dry
- Abdominal discomfort
- Tummy might feel firm
- Refusal to feed
How to handle constipation in babies:
- Ensure baby is getting adequate breastmilk
- Mix formula according to the instructions stated on the formula
- Gently massage the tummy
- Learn how to offer solids to baby the right way (Learn more here)
- Ensure adequate fibre intake
- Offer fruits like pawpaw, apple, pear, orange
See a doctor if symptoms persist or if tummy is swollen, if baby has a fever or poor appeptite
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