A baby’s constipation can be one of the biggest nightmares of parents – hearing your child
cry in pain is a dreadful thought. However, it is more than likely that your baby is not constipated. Often, the baby has not developed a pooping routine yet. In fact, some infants require more time than usual to develop a regular bowel movement pattern. Although newborn constipation is rare due to being breastfed, it can occur if the diet changes due to formula. Most often, a baby can become constipated when getting used to eating solid foods.
In even rarer instances, a baby’s constipation could be due to nerve lack in the intestines or by a complication with intestine formation at birth. If you are worried about your child’s health or have further questions about newborn constipation, talk with a professional. We suggest consulting a pediatrician in Miami, Florida.
So, what can a parent do about a baby’s constipation? What are the signs and symptoms to look out for? Are there any effective ways to treat constipation? Keep reading to find out.
What are the Signs of Newborn Constipation?
Are you dealing with a constipated baby, or is your bundle of joy just fussy? Check out the following signs and symptoms of constipation to find out. When in doubt, discuss your child’s symptoms and talk about your concerns with a professional such as Dr. Hernandez-Puga.
Signs that you have a constipated baby:
- Straining more than usual when having a bowel movement.
- Noticing fewer stools than usual.
- Changes in the appearance of the stool (from mushy and soft) to watery and loose, or large or small and hard pebbles.
- Swollen with gas or a bloated belly.
- Painful cramps.
If you have a constipated baby, the techniques in this article should help relieve any symptoms and pain. However, if your baby’s condition does not improve and you notice worsening symptoms, consult with your child’s healthcare specialist. In fact, we always recommend talking with a doctor whenever you have questions related to your child’s health. Only after you have received a diagnosis should you continue with treatment methods.
Best Ways to Relieve the Baby’s Constipation
Now that you are aware of the signs and symptoms of infant constipation and you are sure that your child is affected, you are ready to move on to the next step. How can you help your child feel better? Most of the time, the situation can be gently and quickly relieved from the comfort of your home with the following home remedies. Of course, if these remedies for infant constipation are not helping your child, you may need medical assistance. However, this is rare and highly unlikely. Check out the top 10 ways to help your constipated baby.
Strengthen Baby’s Digestive Tract with Exercise
Exercise is fantastic for encouraging the well-being of your child’s digestive system. Regular exercise and a healthy digestive system are essential for proper development and growth. One of the most popular exercises for a constipated baby includes “bicycle legs.” All you need to do is follow these three steps:
- Lay your child down on your lap or on a blanket.
- Grab one foot with your hand and slowly bend at the knees.
- Slowly and gently move their legs in circular motions (like they are cycling). This is a fantastic exercise to encourage the proper functioning of the digestive tract. Moreover, when it comes to infant constipation, it can help get rid of unwanted gas. On top of that, your baby will have plenty of fun!
Give Your Baby a Warm Bath
When babies feel pain, they get cranky, fussy, and unhappy. A great way to relieve baby constipation is to change the scenery and give your baby a relaxing bath. The warm water may help the infant relax from straining and assist in relaxing the abdominal muscles.
Make Sure Your Baby Is Hydrated
One of the main reasons for baby constipation is the lack of hydration in the body. You may want to feed your baby more often if you nurse them. It is important to note however, that breastfed babies, normally stool less often- so you may need to check with your pediatrician. On the other hand, women who formula-feed their babies may want to check whether they are properly feeding the child according to the formula’s directions. For instance, ensure that you are adding the powder after the water. In many cases, you may need to add more water. Also, if the infant is eating solid foods (if they are six months or older), parents may offer water or diluted prune juice between meals.
Add More Fiber Into Your Baby’s Diet
If your child is consuming cheese and other foods that could “block things up”, remove these food items from the diet. Choose fresh and nutrient-dense vegetables and fruits to add fiber. Always consult with your child’s healthcare specialist before making diet changes on your own.
Give Your Baby a Massage
A massage is an excellent way for you to bond with your child, but it is also one of the best ways to comfort an upset belly. A massage can help relieve baby constipation, and it can also help with colic or excess gas. Typically, experts recommend waiting until the child is six weeks old (or older) to begin with belly massages.
Give Your Baby Fruit Juice
Again, a lack of fiber can make your baby constipated. Constipation is often associated with dairy products such as cheese and yogurt. Some children may require gradual dietary changes, so some parents prefer adding fruit juices to their diets to up fiber content. Please note however that fruit juices are not recommended for children under one year of age. Please consult your pediatrician before giving juices to your baby.
Avoid Feeding Solids
When you start introducing solid foods into your baby’s diet is crucial. According to the World Health Organization, parents should introduce these food items to their child’s diet when they turn six months old. Namely, children younger than six months get all of their nutrition from breast milk or formula.
Change the Formula
Sometimes, infant constipation is linked with different formulas. It is possible that the formula brand does not work with your baby’s sensitive digestive system. Cow’s milk could be the culprit for food sensitivities in babies. Some babies may also have a sensitivity to soy. Make sure that the formula does not contain these ingredients. Please consult with your child’s pediatrician before changing the formula.
Consider Taking Your Baby’s Rectal Temperature
Refrain from this method if you have not consulted a medical professional first. Although it could be a quick solution to constipation, babies may become scared of using the bathroom, while others will begin to rely on this method for bowel movements.
Turn to a Medical Professional for Guidance.
When all of these methods fail, you will want to get professional help. By talking to your child’s pediatrician about signs and symptoms, your doctor can check for patterns and find possible causes.
The child’s doctor may also help parents with any health-related concerns, as well as give tips on aiding digestion. Although all of these at-home remedies are effective, they may not be the best choice for your child’s specific needs.
If you are looking for professionals for the best advice and expert results, we are here to help your family. Give us a call today to schedule your first appointment.
