How do I know if my baby is constipated?
Each baby is different when it comes to the frequency of bowel motions. But it is not the frequency but rather the type of bowel motion that matters. A baby who is constipated will pass small, hard stools with straining or difficulty. They may have colic pains due to stools remaining in their body and they might also go off their food. Because passing the stools may hurt, your baby might also subconsciously try and stop making bowel movements too, which can make the problem continue.
What causes constipation?
Constipation may be caused by a number of things including a change of diet, dehydration, medication or a minor illness like a cold. It is rarely seen in breast fed babies because breast milk is more easily digested.
What can I do to help?
There are several things you can do for your constipated baby:
- Give your baby extra drinks of cooled, boiled water (30-50 ml) between feeds
- Underfeeding may lead to constipation – make sure you are feeding your baby enough
- If formula feeding, make sure that the formula is being made correctly - too much infant milk powder will make the feed too concentrated
- Gently massage your baby's tummy in a clockwise direction after a warm bath. Some baby oil on your hands may help. Only continue if your baby seems relaxed and comfortable.
- Move your baby’s legs in a cycling motion
- For babies over 3 months of age, some diluted prune juice can be given for a short period of time. Ensure you discuss this with you health care professional first.
To make prune juice: in a small saucepan, bring to the boil 1 cup of water with 4 to 5 moist, stoneless prunes. Simmer, covered, for about 10 to 20 minutes or until prunes are very soft. Rub through a clean, fine sieve. Discard pulp in sieve. Reheat prune juice to the boil, tip into a sterilised container, cover and refrigerate. Use within 2 days or cool, then pour juice into a ice cube tray and freeze.
Give baby 1 teaspoon of prune juice mixed with 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooled, boiled water once a day.
It is important to stop using prune juice once regular bowel motions return.
If you have any worries about your baby's health, it's always best to talk to your health care professional.