The frequency of bowel movements in babies can vary a great deal depending on whether they are breast or bottle fed. Sometimes babies can appear to strain and grunt or go red in the face when they have their bowels opened but this does not mean they are constipated unless the stools are hard. True constipation is rare in young babies and if suspected further advice from a health practitioner should always be sought.
How to recognise constipation
- A baby who is passing hard poo which appears to cause pain or discomfort
The consistency of the stool is more important than the frequency. Breast fed babies can poo from several times per day to less than once per week and as long as the poo is soft the baby would not be considered to be constipated
Causes of constipation in babies could include
- Not enough water in made up formula milk
- A change in formula feed (particularly to 'follow on' formula or at the introduction of cows milk/weaning)
- Not enough drinks particularly in hot weather
How to help
- If the baby is formula fed, check the formula is being made up properly with the correct ratio of powder to water
- Offer extra cooled boiled water in between feeds
- For older babies (over 5 months old) offer fruit juice or small amounts of stewed fruit (e.g. prunes) or steamed vegetables
- A warm bath and gently rubbing the babies tummy clockwise may help
- Gentle exercise. 'Cycling' the babies legs can help stimulate bowel movements
- Laxatives should not be given unless prescribed by a doctor