The Crib: A Blog for New Parents

Posted by pecuellar on 01/08/08 - 05:25 PM

Constipation is a common problem for babies and toddlers. This problem can be a little difficult to identify but can cause major discomfort to your child. It can cause tummy aches, irritability and fussiness. I have even seen increased problems in reflux and spitting up during particularly difficult bouts of constipation. All of my children had problems as babies and the oldest still struggles with sluggish bowels at three years old.

There is no right number of bowel movements for babies, and there is a wide range of normal. Some babies will go after every feeding while others might only go once or twice a day. The key is to pay attention to what is normal for your child. Babies who are formula fed are more likely to have difficulty than breast fed babies. Also the introduction of solid foods can also cause a disturbance in your child’s normal potty habits.

There are many things that you can try to help alleviate your child’s suffering depending on the age of your child.

For infants:

• Try massaging her belly. Small circles just below the navel have worked well for me.

• Move her feet back and forth as though she were riding a bicycle.

• Add a teaspoon of Karo syrup to her bottle.

For older children:

• Diluted prune juice or prunes.

• Decrease constipating foods such as bananas, rice and carrots.

• Increase fluid intake by offering water between meals.

If this is a consistent problem you may want to consider discussing other options with your child’s pediatrician. Your infant may need a different formula.