Question
A two-month-old baby, on mixed feeding, has bowel movements only once every few days. After taking probiotics and Simmered Four Herbs decoction, the baby’s bowel movements become smooth, but difficulty in defecation returns after stopping the medication. The baby is also given plenty of water, but the situation does not improve. How should this be handled?
Answer
Babies may sometimes experience bowel movements only once every three or five days, a condition known as ‘stagnant bowels.’ As long as the baby does not show any abnormal symptoms such as fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, lack of energy, or reduced milk intake, there is no need to worry excessively. However, if other abnormal symptoms appear, it is necessary to go to the hospital for a check-up to see if there is an infection and to undergo a digestive tract ultrasound to check for other issues. At the same time, it is important to avoid contact with cold patients and to prevent colds. Breastfeeding mothers should avoid eating overly greasy, spicy, or irritating foods. If the baby has a sense of defecation but cannot pass stool, a rectal suppository can be used to try to help. If necessary, a digestive tract ultrasound can be performed.