Watching a constipated baby strain to try and force out a hard poo can be almost as distressing for parents as it is for the baby.
Fortunately, there are things you can do to help relieve your baby’s constipation. Generally, simple dietary changes have a flow-on effect towards creating changes in a baby’s bowel habits.
Occasionally, constipation is a sign that the baby’s gut is not working as it needs to. It’s important to see a health professional if you are at all concerned about your baby’s bowel habits. Before giving your baby any medication or treatments which you feel could help them to poo, first consult with a doctor.
Constipation is about the consistency of a baby’s poo, not how often they poo. Some babies poo every day and others only poo every few days. Even if your baby hasn’t pooed for a while, as long as their poos are soft and pasty, try not to worry.
It’s common for breastfed babies to poo with every nappy change – up to five or more times each day. Some don’t poo for a week or more. Breastfed babies who are having plenty of milk have poos which are soft and pale to dark yellow or mustard coloured.
Babies who are formula-fed poo less frequently than breastfed babies. They may poo 1-2 times each day, or less often. Their poo is firmer and green to brown in colour.
For babies who are not yet having solid food:
For babies who are eating solid food:
One of the functions of the large bowel is to reabsorb water from the poos so they aren’t too loose. If poo sits in the large bowel for a few days, too much water is reabsorbed. This means the poos become dry and hard to pass. Sometimes the poo becomes too big, dry and impacted for the baby to push out.
Always speak and check with a qualified nurse or healthcare professional about your baby to understand what your baby’s individual needs are, especially if you are ever concerned about your baby's well being.
Speak with your Child Health Nurse or doctor if you are concerned about your baby’s bowel habits. Constipation can be a sign of insufficient milk intake or, more uncommonly, health concerns.
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For mums who are able to, breastfeeding is best for babies. It delivers many benefits for both mum and baby. Breastmilk contains all the nutrients your growing bub needs to thrive, especially in the first 6 months of life, plus antibodies to help them fight infections.
It’s important for pregnant and breastfeeding mums to maintain good nutrition. Deciding to use a combination of breast and bottle-feeding for an extended period may reduce your own breast milk supply, and reversing your decision may be difficult.
When using infant formula, follow the feeding guide and preparation directions carefully. Improper use or incorrect preparation of infant formula can make your baby ill.
Consult your doctor or health care professional for advice prior to using the formula to feed your baby. You should also consider the social and financial implications before deciding to use infant formula.
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