Constipation in babies and toddlers can be a common concern, even for those with a healthy diet. If your child is straining, passing hard stool, or refusing to poop, they may be constipated. The good news? It's often easily treatable.
Baby Constipation: Constipation occurs when poop becomes hard, dry, and difficult to pass. It’s rare in newborns, but can happen as babies start eating solids. Signs include hard, pellet-like stools, less frequent pooping, and fussiness.
Relieving Baby Constipation:
- Offer apple or pear juice (ask your pediatrician first).
- Include high-fiber foods for those on solids.
- Ensure adequate fluid intake.
- Encourage movement.
- Consider probiotic-rich foods.
Toddler Constipation: Once your child is on solid foods, constipation may resemble that of adults, with hard, dry, or infrequent poops. Causes include low fiber, insufficient water, or behavioral factors like withholding stool during potty training.
Relieving Toddler Constipation:
- Serve high-fiber foods and limit binders like dairy.
- Ensure proper hydration.
- Encourage active play.
- Consider pausing potty training if it’s causing stress.
When to Call the Doctor: Consult your pediatrician if your newborn has fewer than one bowel movement a day, if your older baby or toddler hasn’t pooped in several days, or if constipation is accompanied by pain, vomiting, or blood in the stool.
With a few dietary changes and some patience, you can help your little one get back to regular bowel movements.