Constipation can cause discomfort, pain and may require intensive treatment if prolonged. That’s why it’s important that parents recognize the signs of constipation in their children so they can provide the right treatment.
Key Takeaway and Summary
Baby constipation occurs when stool is harder than usual to pass for two weeks or more.
Signs include intermittent abdominal bloating, reduced appetite, and an irritable or angry mood.
Common causes include insufficient fluids or fibre and holding stool because defecation feels uncomfortable.
Offer water, fruits, vegetables, and doctor-recommended formula with probiotics to support gut bacteria.
Seek medical advice for prolonged symptoms and maintain a balanced diet to help prevent constipation
How do I know if my baby is constipated?
- Constipation occurs when your baby’s stool is harder than usual to be passed, for 2 or more weeks.
- Other signs of constipation include intermittent abdominal bloating, a reduced appetite, and an overall irritable and angry mood.
What causes baby constipation?
- One of the main causes of constipation is a lack of fluids in your baby’s daily diet. Your baby should have enough water daily as well as fibre from fruits and vegetables.
- Constipation may also occur when your baby holds it in due to discomfort during defecation.
How can I help my baby overcome constipation?
- Ensure your baby gets lots of water, as well as fruits and vegetables, which are rich in fibre. Starting your baby early on vegetables will also help your child adapt to the taste, and help inculcate good eating habits in the future.
- Give your baby food, or your doctor may introduce you to some formulated milk powder for children. This formula milk often contains probiotics, which help to promote good bacteria in the gut.
- If your baby has been experiencing prolonged symptoms of constipation you should seek further advice from your doctor. As in all things, prevention is better than looking for a cure, so it’s important to have your baby eating a healthy and well-balanced diet to prevent constipation.
FAQs
What other signs can accompany baby constipation?
Other signs include intermittent abdominal bloating, reduced appetite, and an irritable or angry mood.
What commonly causes baby constipation?
A lack of fluids or fibre from fruits and vegetables can cause constipation, as can holding stool due to discomfort.
How can I help my baby overcome constipation?
Offer plenty of water and fibre-rich fruits and vegetables, and ask your doctor about formulated milk powder with probiotics.
When should I seek medical advice?
Seek further advice from your doctor if your baby experiences prolonged constipation symptoms, especially if your baby has developed symptoms such Stomach bloating and not passing gas, refusing to drink milk, projectile vomiting or inconsolable crying with knees curled to their chest
Related articles
Your baby’s step-by-step guide to texture
Once your baby has mastered smooth purees, it’s time to offer textured foods. Experience with different textures helps him develop the skills for chewing.
1 min to read
Helping your little one love good food – for life!
Perhaps one of your most important jobs as a parent is to be a good role model for your baby, particularly when it comes to healthy eating.
4 mins to read
Developing Healthy Digestive System By Including Probiotics In Your Child's Diet
There are billions of bacteria living in our digestive system.
3 mins to read
Minimizing Sucrose Intake To Cultivate Healthier Eating Habits For Your Child
WHAT IS SUCROSE
3 mins to read
Curious about your baby’s vision? Your little one sees the world very differently than you do. Here is a guide to the general development of a baby's eyesight.
1 min to read
Foods to offer your baby now to encourage healthy eating later
Variety is key when you start complementary feeding. Help set her up for a future of healthy eating with these need-to-know numbers and food ideas.
1 min to read
Moving on to finger foods? Follow our baby-led weaning checklist
Wondering when to start baby food? Most babies are ready to start trying at around six months.
2 mins to read
Baby talk: How to encourage baby’s first words.
Your baby’s first words are likely to happen after a few months of baby talk.
2 mins to read
Baby massages are great for getting baby ready for bed and soothing tummy troubles. Find out what to do with this baby tummy massage breakdown.
2 mins to read
Babies And Their Grandparents - The Beginning Of A Beautiful Love Story
Grandparents love looking after their grandchildren and can be a great help to you as long as they can retain their freedom! Make the most of this special relationship.
3 mins to read
How to relieve colic pain in infants
Babies cry. Some babies cry more than others. If your otherwise healthy baby is under five months old and has repeated bouts of uncontrollable crying, it could be colic.
2 mins to read
Your Baby's Physical Development
If you think your baby has it easy for the first few months, think again. Each month or even each day, brings new skills and progress.
4 mins to read
The dos and don’ts of responsive feeding
The ways you feed your baby are as important as what you feed her. Find out what to watch for, and what to do, when your baby starts eating complementary foods.
6 mins to read
How to Increase Baby Immunity with Child-Friendly Foods
Nothing is more painful than seeing your child fall prey to infectious diseases easily.
4 mins to read
Your baby’s small injuries: Small injuries may play a part in your baby’s daily life. The best solution is always to seek your doctor’s advice.
4 mins to read
How much food to feed your baby at 6-7 months / 8 months / 9-11 months
While feeding your baby, understanding how much food he/she needs can be tricky.
2 mins to read
Acceptance and Refusal – 12 to 24 Months
When feeding your baby, understanding how much food he/she needs can be tricky.
2 mins to read
Baby immunizations—a parent’s guide
Immunization time—gulp! Your baby’s first injections can be upsetting parents and babies. If you are anxious, your baby may pick up on your feelings so try to stay calm.
3 mins to read
Going away with your baby gives you the opportunity to spend time with your family and enjoy their company. To make your trip a success, good preparation and organization are essential.
2 mins to read
