How do you know if your new baby is constipated? What are the signs of constipation in newborns and how to relieve constipation in babies quickly.
Constipation is when someone has very infrequent bowel movements or they have very hard stools which are extremely difficult to pass. You are said to be constipated if you have three bowel movements or less a week.
Constipation can be very distressing for a baby. It’s important that you know what to look out for so you know how to relieve constipation in babies quickly.
What Are The Causes Of Constipation In Babies?
- Formula fed babies are more likely to get constipated as the formula will make the stool much harder than breast milk.
- A change in diet.
- Medication your baby may be on could cause constipation. Check with your doctor to see if this is a side effect.
- A milk intolerance will cause constipation.
- If your baby is unwell they may drink less. Dehydration can cause constipation.
- Premature babies are more likely to be constipated. Food may move more slowly through their under developed digestive system.
- A family history of constipation may also be a contributing factor.
The Signs Of Constipation In Newborns
I should point out that it is can be normal for a baby to poop infrequently as the body may absorb most of the milk because it is so nutritious. So this sign alone may not necessarily mean that your baby is constipated.
- Very dry, hard stools
- Poop that is very small and pellet shaped
- Loss of appetite
- Crying and signs of discomfort
- Less than 3 bowel movements per week
- Passing a lot of wind that is particularly smelly
- A hard abdomen
- Passing small amounts of bright red blood with a hard bowel movement
- Baby is showing signs of excessive straining
How To Relieve Constipation In Babies Quickly
Change Formula – If you are bottle feeding your baby changing the formula you are giving them may be all it takes. Not every brand will suit every baby so it may take a few tries to see which brand works best for your baby.
Give Water – Try giving your baby a couple of ounces of water after each feed. This is to prevent dehydration which can cause constipation.
Try A Warm Bath – A nice warm bath will help to relax your baby. The idea is that baby will release any tension in the body and that hopefully the bowels will begin to move.
Movement – Regular movement can help get your baby’s bowels moving. Lay your baby on their back, and lift up their legs. Move their legs in a circular motion as if they were riding a bicycle. This can help with pressure in the tummy and hopefully get things moving.
Massage Baby’s Tummy – Gently massaging your baby’s tummy may help get their bowels moving. Place your hand over baby’s bellybutton and massage gently in a clockwise circular motion. Gradually make the circles bigger.
Glycerin Suppository – A glycerin suppository should gently help your baby have a bowel movement within 30 minutes. Always consult your doctor before using these.
If In Doubt Call The Doctor – If your baby’s constipation continues after trying these remedies, if they seem excessive pain or have a lot of fresh blood on their diaper then be sure to see your doctor. They can examine your baby to rule out anything more serious.
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