How to Treat and Improve Constipation in a 2-Year-Old Child

Question

Why is my 2-year-old child’s stool always hard, and what medicine can I take to improve this issue?

Answer

When helping a 2-year-old child improve constipation, medication treatment is not the first choice. It’s usually more important to establish a regular bowel movement habit and maintain a balanced diet. Parents can give prompts before their child has a bowel movement and try to have them sit on the toilet at the same time every day, which can gradually help them develop the habit of regular bowel movements. If the child still does not defecate, do not force them or let them sit on the toilet for too long. In terms of diet, children should be given refined foods, vegetables, sweet potatoes, and fruits, which can help soften stool. For children who frequently suffer from constipation, in addition to cultivating the habit of regular bowel movements, some drugs that promote intestinal peristalsis and lubricate the intestines can also be administered intermittently. Additionally, attention should be paid to the timing of milk powder and calcium intake to avoid constipation.