Question

How can I solve my baby’s constipation problem? My baby has been exclusively breastfed, but for the past ten days or so, they haven’t had a bowel movement. Although they have passed gas and the smell is rather unpleasant, they are not having a bowel movement. They are not crying or fussing, and they seem relatively normal. Usually, they have a bowel movement every three days or so, but this time it has been too long, and I don’t know what to do. Are there any main methods?

Answer

For babies who haven’t had a bowel movement in 3-4 days, you can use pediatric enemas or soap sticks to gently stimulate the anus to help with defecation. In addition, consider the following measures:

  1. Increase fluid intake by adding milk partner to formula or water once a day. Formula and breast milk should be separated by 2 hours from calcium-rich foods to avoid constipation and affect calcium absorption.
  2. For babies who are breastfed exclusively, the mother should adjust her diet to eat lighter and drink more water.
  3. Perform two abdominal clockwise massages for the baby each day, lasting 5-10 minutes each time.
  4. Give the baby more fruit and vegetable juices. Do not drink milk too quickly, and dilute the formula slightly when preparing it.