Newborn babies can suffer from constipation, which can be uncomfortable and distressing for both baby and parents. If your newborn is constipated, you are probably at your wits end over how to care for your newborn and deal with their constipation. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to help soothe the symptoms of constipation in your baby, without the need for medication.
Table of Content
Key Points:
- Newborn constipation is a common occurrence in babies and can cause distress and discomfort to your little one.
- There are many home remedies to counter the problem of constipation in newborns including changing diet, exercise, fruit juice, hydration and massage.
- These home remedies can help to provide your newborn with much-needed relief from constipation.
In this article, we discuss the various newborn constipation remedies as well as when to seek medical help.
Frequent bowel movements are an essential part of a newborn’s development. Healthy stools indicate that your infant’s intestinal system is functioning properly. However, many babies struggle with constipation, which can be the result of nursing problems, dehydration, poor diet, and stress.
Read Also: How to Relieve Constipation Through Home Remedies?
There are 7 reliable ways to counter the problem of constipation in babies:
1: Give a small amount of fruit juice:
Fruit juice is a good source of fiber and sugar, which will help in the prevention of constipation in newborns. You can add it to a formula spoon or mix it with breast milk. A small amount of fruit juice gives following benefits:
- Drinking fruit juice helps to prevent dehydration in newborn babies.
- A small amount of fruit juice can dilute stool and make it easy to pass.
- Fruit juice will have a laxative effect, which helps in relieving constipation.
Tip: Fruit juice is the best source of nutrition. It is advisable to give your baby boiled fruits with a little amount of water on an empty stomach in the morning before bath time or just before going to sleep at night.
2: Changing Diet:
Several high-fiber meals, such as beans, broccoli, prunes, and spinach, can help your baby return to regular bowel movements. A barley cereal alternative to your baby’s rice cereal may also be an option. Some infants may become constipated from eating rice cereal. Oatmeal, wheat, or barley cereal may be beneficial if your infant eats cereal.
3: Massage:
Giving an abdominal massage to your infant can enhance bowel frequency and lessen constipation symptoms. There are different methods of massaging a baby’s tummy to get rid of constipation. A few of these include:
- Making clockwise circular strokes with the fingers on the abdomen.
- In a clockwise motion, circle the naval with your fingertips.
- Using the edge of a finger, rub the area between the ribs and the belly button.
- Firmly pressing the baby’s feet toward the abdomen while holding the baby’s knees and feet together.
4: Give a Warm Bath:
Giving your infant a warm bath can help in relaxing their abdominal muscles and reduce straining. It also decreases the pain that comes with constipation. Warm water in a basin can help the baby’s rectum’s sphincter muscle relax, allowing the bowel movement to pass easily.
5: Exercise:
Babies struggle to relax their rectum and squeeze their stomach muscles when trying to poop. Constipation is treated by moving a baby’s legs. When the infant rests on their back, gently move their legs to resemble riding a bicycle. It can improve bowel movement and get rid of constipation.
6: Thermometer Trick:
If cycling and massage don’t help, try sticking a cotton swab or a thermometer coated with Vaseline just a half-inch to an inch inside the infant’s anus. Relax, this won’t hurt. Babies typically react to this by pressing down to force the object out.
7: Hydration:
Infants often don’t require extra drinks because breast milk or formula provides all the hydration. However, a tiny amount of liquid may be helpful for a baby’s constipation. Regular bowel movements require proper hydration. Your baby can stay hydrated by having milk and water. When a baby is over 2-4 months old and constipated, pediatricians may suggest a small amount of water or fruit juice. Before giving anything other than breast milk or formula to your infant (under six months old), consult your doctor.
Read Also: How To Get Rid Of Constipation Instantly?
Conclusion
A baby becomes uncomfortable and restless in constipation. Home remedies are commonly used to treat constipation. Constipation in your child will usually go away on its own or with a few natural remedies. It is recommended to call a doctor if your baby hasn’t passed a stool in a day or two, and you have any concerns at any time.
If home remedies do not work then consult a pediatrician through Marham. There are various (OTC) over-the-counter drugs you can try but first ask your doctor for guidance or recommendations.
FAQs:
1. Does newborn constipation go away?
It is common for infants and young children to experience brief bouts of constipation that resolve after 1 to 2 days. You don’t usually need to seek medical help.
2. What causes a newborn baby to be constipated?
Not drinking enough fluids. Changes in circumstances, such as travel, school or stressful events.
