As a parent, you naturally want your baby to feel good and experience no discomfort. Constipation, or stoppage, is a common problem in babies and can lead to hard stools, pain, or discomfort. Although it is normal for babies to have different bowel patterns, parents may become concerned when bowel movements are difficult or less frequent. Some babies may only poop once every few days. Every child has their own bowel pattern. It is especially important that your baby does not experience discomfort due to their bowel movements.
What is constipation in babies?
Constipation in babies means that your child has difficulty passing stools. This can manifest in: • Hard, dry stools. • Less frequent bowel movements than normal (less than three times a week with formula feeding). • Crying or visible discomfort during bowel movements. • Holding back stools due to pain.
Although constipation is usually harmless, it can be uncomfortable for your baby and cause restlessness. It is important to recognize the signs and intervene in time.
Possible causes of constipation
- Transition in diet: When switching foods or introducing solid foods, your baby's intestines need to adjust. This can lead to temporarily more difficult bowel movements. This will improve on its own after about two weeks.
- Incorrect food ratio: For formula feeding, incorrect dosages (too little water or too much powdered milk) can cause harder stools.
- Insufficient fluid intake: If your baby is not drinking enough, this can lead to drier, harder stools.
- Developmental stages: During certain growth stages, your baby's digestive system can be extra sensitive, which may lead to constipation.
Tips to relieve constipation
For breastfed babies:
- Feed more frequently: Breast milk contains nutrients that soften the stools. By nursing your baby more often, you can help improve bowel movements.
For formula-fed babies:
- Correct dosage: Make sure you prepare the formula correctly (30 ml of water per level scoop of powder).
- Extra water: Give your baby 10-20 ml of water between feedings or add 10% extra water to the formula (if your baby drinks the bottle completely).
General tips:
- Movement and tummy massage: Make bicycle movements with your baby's legs or massage the tummy with circular motions. This stimulates bowel function.
- High-fiber foods: If your baby is eating solids, offer fiber-rich foods like prune or pear puree and vegetables.
- Suppositories and laxatives: Do not use suppositories or laxatives without consulting a doctor. This can do more harm than good.
When to consult a doctor?
Although constipation usually resolves on its own, it is important to consult a doctor if:
- The constipation lasts longer than five days.
- Your baby has blood in their stool.
- Your baby is in severe pain or is extremely restless.
- Your baby shows signs of weight loss.
