Baby constipation is more common than you think and is most frequently the result of dietary changes as your child grows and develops. For example, changing from breast milk to formula or to a solid diet from one that was all-liquid. Before you start to panic about your baby’s constipation, you need to know the facts about constipation.
- Regularity isn’t always present: Just because you child isn’t having bowel movements like clockwork does not mean they are constipated. As your child gets older and moves away from an all-liquid diet bowel movements may become less frequent.
- Exercise can make a difference: crawling, moving legs around and any sort of activity can help with constipation.
- Pain is a sign of constipation: a baby showing signs of pain is exhibiting one of the signs and symptoms of constipation. It should not be painful to have a bowel movement.
- Your baby is less hungry: in some instances your baby may actually have a decreased appetite because they are unable to have a bowel movement.
- Change in diet is the most likely cause: If the baby is breastfed the most likely reason for constipation is some change in the mother’s diet. Talk to your doctor about potentially having the mother eat prunes or reduce dairy intake in her diet. Sometimes the introduction of solids can result in constipation as well so remember to take it slow!
