Question

My child is already 8 months old, but has not had a bowel movement for 4 days recently. What should I do?

Answer

Your child may be experiencing constipation, a common issue in infants. The causes may include dietary changes, insufficient fluid intake, or the maturation process of the digestive system. To address this issue, you can try the following methods:

  1. Increase your child’s fluid intake, including breast milk, formula, water, or other age-appropriate liquids.
  2. Monitor the consistency of your child’s stool; if it is very hard and difficult to pass, it may be a sign of constipation.
  3. Add fiber-rich foods to your child’s diet, such as oatmeal, mashed fruits, and mashed vegetables.
  4. Encourage your child to be more active, which can help stimulate bowel movement. If these methods do not help, or if your child exhibits symptoms such as abdominal bloating, stomach pain, or loss of appetite, please contact a doctor immediately for professional advice and treatment.