No parents want to see their child suffer. Babies who are still unable to communicate have no way of telling their parents what is bothering them and why they are constantly crying. But, if you notice hard stool or constipated poop in your baby’s cloth diapers, you know the reason. This article by Care for Child will help you understand the reasons behind constipation in babies & help you with baby constipation remedies that you can easily do at home to help your baby pass the poop and feel better.
Constipation in Babies – Why is it important to be addressed?
Baby constipation is a common issue for parents, and it is important to treat it quickly for the baby's health. The following justifies the significance of treating constipation in infants:
- Pain and discomfort: A baby experiencing constipation may become agitated and distressed due to pain and discomfort.
- Effect on feeding: A baby's eating habits and total dietary intake may be impacted by constipation.
- Risk of complications: If anal fissures or withholding of poop are not addressed, constipation may result in problems.
- Sleep disturbance: Constipation discomfort can cause an infant's sleep habits to be disturbed, which can have an impact on their general health and well-being.
Parents may contribute to their baby's comfort and save future issues by identifying and treating constipation early on.
Causes of Constipation in Babies
- Dietary factors - Constipation in babies can be triggered by dietary factors such as a lack of fibre in their diet, early introduction of solid foods, or an imbalance in formula milk. A diet low in fibre can lead to difficulty in passing stools, resulting in constipation. Introducing solid foods too quickly before the baby's digestive system is ready can also contribute to constipation. Ensuring a balanced diet with adequate fibre and hydration can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation in babies.
- Dehydration - Inadequate fluid intake or dehydration can contribute to constipation in babies. When a baby does not consume enough fluids, the stools can become hard and difficult to pass, leading to constipation. Ensuring that the baby is receiving enough breast milk, formula, or water, depending on their age, is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain regular bowel movements.
- Lack of physical activity - Limited physical activity or movement can also be a factor in causing constipation in babies. Physical activity helps stimulate the digestive system and promote bowel movements. Encouraging gentle exercises, tummy time, and movement can aid in preventing constipation by keeping the baby's digestive system active and functioning properly.
- Medical conditions - Certain medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, Hirschsprung's disease, or cow's milk protein allergy can also contribute to constipation in babies. These conditions may affect the functioning of the digestive system, leading to constipation. If a baby experiences persistent constipation despite dietary changes and home remedies, it is important to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying medical conditions and receive appropriate treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Constipation in Babies
- Infrequent bowel movements - Frequent bowel movements are one of the main indicators of constipation in infants. When a newborn has trouble consistently passing poop, constipation may be the cause. Keeping an eye on the frequency of bowel movements can assist parents in spotting any constipation problems early on and taking the necessary steps to treat them.
- Hard or dry stools - Constipated babies often pass hard, dry stools that may be difficult and painful to expel. These stools can cause discomfort and lead to further complications if not addressed promptly. Recognizing the consistency of the baby's stools can provide valuable insight into their digestive health and help parents determine if constipation is a concern.
- Straining during bowel movements - When they have constipation, babies may push or strain when they go to the bathroom. Constipation can make it difficult to pass poop, which can lead to straining. Parents may determine whether their infant is constipated by observing the infant's behaviour during bowel motions or diaper changes.
- Irritability or discomfort - Constipation can cause irritability and discomfort in babies. The discomfort from constipation can make the baby fussy, irritable, and difficult to console. Babies may exhibit signs of discomfort such as crying, fussiness, or restlessness due to the discomfort associated with constipation. Recognizing these signs of irritability or discomfort can prompt parents to take action to alleviate the baby's constipation and improve their comfort and well-being.
Baby Constipation Home Remedies
Coming to the main topic of the article, here are the five best home remedies for baby constipation. These baby constipation home remedies can be easily administered at home for a few days, but if your baby is constipated and not passing poop for more than a week, it is advised to speak to your baby’s paediatrician immediately.
- Increase fluid intake - Ensuring adequate fluid intake is crucial in relieving constipation in babies. Offering more breast milk, formula, or water to keep the baby hydrated can help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements. Hydration plays a key role in maintaining healthy digestion and preventing constipation in infants.
- Adjust diet to include high-fibre foods - Introducing high-fibre foods like pureed fruits (e.g., prunes, pears) or vegetables (e.g., peas, sweet potatoes) can help regulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation in babies and can prove to be the best home remedy for baby constipation. Fibre-rich foods add bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass through the digestive tract and reducing the likelihood of constipation.
- Encourage physical activity - Gentle physical activity such as tummy time, leg cycling, or gentle baby massages can help stimulate the baby's digestive system and promote bowel movements. Movement aids in the natural functioning of the intestines, helping to alleviate constipation and maintain regularity in a baby's bowel habits.
- Massage techniques to aid digestion - Gentle abdominal massages can help relieve constipation by stimulating bowel movements and aiding digestion. Massaging the baby's tummy in a clockwise motion can help move gas and stool through the intestines, easing constipation discomfort and promoting regularity in bowel movements.
- Warm baths to relax the baby's muscles - A warm bath can help relax the baby's abdominal muscles and provide comfort, which may aid in relieving constipation. The warm water can help soothe the baby and promote relaxation, potentially easing any discomfort associated with constipation. Additionally, the warm bath can stimulate blood flow and muscle relaxation in the abdomen, supporting healthy digestion and bowel movements.
When to Seek Medical Help
If your infant still has constipation after trying at-home cures, you should get them checked out by a doctor. Red signs that need to be addressed right once include blood in the stool or the development of severe stomach discomfort and vomiting. These symptoms could point to a more serious underlying problem that requires medical diagnosis and treatment. If you see any of these symptoms in your child, do not be afraid to get them checked out and given the proper care.
Tips For Preventing Constipation in Babies
- Ensure adequate fluid intake through breastfeeding, formula, or water
- Gradually introduce high-fiber foods like fruits and vegetables
- Encourage regular physical activity and tummy time
- Monitor bowel movements and address any signs of constipation promptly
- Consult with a healthcare provider for guidance on preventing constipation in babies
Key Takeaways
- Recognizing and addressing constipation in babies promptly is crucial to alleviate their discomfort and ensure their well-being.
- Untreated constipation can impact a baby's feeding patterns, sleep quality, and overall health.
- Parents play a vital role in preventing constipation by promoting a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and regular physical activity for their babies.
FAQs
Q1 – Are newborn baby constipation home remedies safe?
Ans – As long as you are not feeding anything that is not approved by the doctor, a little massage and hot bath and such similar baby constipation home remedies are safe for an infant.
Q2 – What should be avoided as Indian home remedies for baby constipation?
Ans – Many parents give their infants sugar or honey mixed with food for constipation or due to superstitious reasons. This should be avoided as sugar can be harmful to your baby’s dental growth and honey can even be fatal.