As a mother, watching your baby struggle to poo can be upsetting. Just like adults, newborn babies can experience constipation, which can leave them feeling uncomfortable and irritable. This can obviously be tough to watch as parents, but try not to worry as constipation in newborns is relatively common and is easily managed too.

In this blog, Dr. Promilla Butani, a well-known general pediatric doctor in Delhi, has discussed the causes of constipation, the signs to look out for in newborns, and some effective tips to treat baby constipation. Continue reading for more insights.

What is Constipation in Newborns?

If the baby is pooping less than three times a week and has poop that is difficult to pass or is small or hard, they may be constipated.

What Causes Constipation in Newborns?

Following are the factors that cause constipation in newborns:

1. Dehydration: If the baby is not drinking enough, it can make their poop difficult to pass.
2. Immature Digestive System: Newborn babies have an immature digestive system, and their intestines need time to develop the coordination necessary for efficient bowel movements.
3. Breastfeeding: If the newborn baby is exclusively breastfed, they are likely to experience constipation. Breast milk is easily digested and provides necessary nutrients. If the mother's diet lacks fiber or if there are changes in the breastfeeding routine, it could lead to constipation.
4. Formula Feeding: Constipation can occur if a formula-fed baby does not receive appropriate fluids or if the formula is not correctly mixed.

What are the Symptoms of Constipation in Newborns?

The signs and symptoms of baby constipation are as below:

• Signs of discomfort and irritability when passing a poo.
  
  
• A hard tummy
  
  
• Smellier wind or poo
  
  
• Dry and hard poo in the baby’s nappy
  
  
• Loss of appetite
  
  

How to Treat Constipation in Newborns?

Treating constipation in newborn babies requires a gentle approach. How are some of the ways that can be followed:

1. Increase Fluid Intake: Ensure that the baby is getting enough fluid. Adequate hydration can soften the pool.
2. Gently Massage the Tummy: Gently massaging the baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction can help stimulate bowel movements and relieve constipation. Place the baby on their back and use circular motions with your fingertips.
3. Warm Bath: A warm bath might help to relax and relieve the baby's muscles. One can gently massage the baby’s tummy while in the bath.
4. Monitor Formula: If the baby is formula-fed, check if the formula might be contributing to constipation. Discuss with the pediatrician different types of formula that might be easier to digest.

Conclusion

If the baby’s constipation persists or if one notices any signs of distress, like blood in the stool or severe abdominal pain, even after following the above tips, one can book a consultation with Dr. Promilla Butani, a leading pediatrician specialist in Delhi. She has been practicing in the field of childcare since 1971 and runs a parent friendly clinic at Sarvodaya Enclave, Dr. Promilla Butani's Pediatrics Practice.

Dr. Promilla Butani provides guidance on general pediatrics (checkups for issues like asthma, allergies, childhood and adolescent obesity), community and social pediatrics, vaccinations, breast feeding techniques, counseling of adolescents, etc. She can also provide further guidance and recommend appropriate treatments if necessary.

For more information, visit Dr. Promilla Butani's Pediatrics Practice.