Many parents become concerned if their baby has not pooed for a couple of days. And it’s easy to become anxious, especially when usual bowel habits change. As basic as it seems, regular bowel motions are a sign that our babies are healthy and thriving. When they don’t poo as we expect them to, or their poos aren’t as regular as usual, this can start a cycle of parental concern.
Constipation is when the baby passes a dry, hard poo. It is about the consistency of the poo, not how often the baby does a poo. This difference is important to understand to avoid unnecessary concern.
Constipated poos look like small pellets rather than a ‘sausage’ or soft paste in the baby’s nappy. Sometimes there is a small tear or fissure in the baby’s anus from trying to push hard poo out. Anal fissures cause the baby pain. There may also be a speck of blood on the poo or on the baby’s nappy.
Remember, constipation refers to the consistency of bowel motions, not the frequency. So even if your baby hasn’t pooed for a couple of days, this isn’t necessarily a sign that they are constipated.
Breastfed babies may poo every time they have a feed, or may not poo for a week or more. In the early couple of months most breastfed babies poo frequently, especially if they’re having plenty of breast milk.
It’s uncommon for breastfed babies to become constipated. Breast milk has a natural laxative which helps to keep their poos soft and more liquid than formula milk. The action of sucking at the breast starts a process called the gastrocolic reflex. This means that baby’s gastrointestinal tract starts moving and stimulates contractions in the large intestine. Many mothers prepare for a dirty nappy each time they sit down to breastfeed.
Bottle fed babies may poo everyday, or have a poo every 2-3 days. Their poo is generally firmer, more pasty and a different colour to breastfed babies.
Extra drinks of cooled, boiled water between bottle feeds can help to soften firmer poos.
Make sure you are preparing your baby’s formula accurately. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions provided on the Tin.
One of the first foods babies eat is rice cereal. Parents often find that the frequency of their baby’s poos slows down when they start having solids. Rice cereal, especially, can cause poos to become firm, especially in breastfed babies.
Pureed fruits and vegetables which contain fibre help to keep poos soft enough so they can be passed without discomfort.
Speak with your Child Health Nurse or doctor if you are concerned about your baby’s bowel habits. See your doctor if simple dietary changes aren’t helping or if your baby is distressed.
Sorry, we don't know the word “” just yet, but we can point you to our award-winning formula and food...
Browse Our ShopFormula
Purees
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.
By clicking the "I agree" button, you are confirming that you wish to view information about Aussie Bubs Baby Formula on this site, and have read and understood that it is provided for educational and informational purposes only.
Official WeChat Account: BubsAustralia
Don’t have WeChat? Download on the App Store or Google Play.