Question

A five-month-old baby has not had a bowel movement for eight days and was able to pass stool after using a rectal suppository. However, the baby experienced another five-day period without a bowel movement. During this time, medications such as golden bifidobacteria, probiotics, and D3 were used, but no improvement was seen. What could be the possible reasons for the baby’s long-term constipation?

Answer

Long-term constipation in babies may be due to dry stool, insufficient water intake, or improper feeding methods. Here are some recommended treatment measures:

  • Medication Treatment: Use rectal suppositories to insert into the anus.
  • Massage: Spend 10 minutes massaging the abdomen every day. Place the baby on the bed, relax the entire body, and place both hands palm-side down on the navel. First, massage clockwise 100 times, then counter-clockwise 100 times, with moderate pressure and gentle movements. If these methods are not effective, it is recommended to further examine whether there is any abnormality in the baby’s intestines.