Question
My child was born six days ago, and this is the first time he has pooped. He pooped on the third night as well, but now it’s been three consecutive days without a bowel movement. He constantly passes gas, and it’s very smelly. What should I do?
Answer
If a newborn doesn’t have a bowel movement, it indicates that there may be an issue with the baby’s gastrointestinal tract, and immediate adjustment is needed. After a bath, parents can gently rub the baby’s belly in a clockwise direction using massage oil to promote gastrointestinal movement and facilitate bowel movement. For babies over two months old, after a bath, you can give the baby one or two spoons of fresh orange juice, but make sure to dilute it with water. The ratio of orange juice to water is 1:3. Orange juice is rich in vitamin C, which can promote digestion and make bowel movements easier. If a newborn doesn’t have a bowel movement, as long as he is in good spirits and has a good appetite, no treatment is necessary.