Question
My 6-month-old baby has irregular bowel movements recently, hasn’t had a bowel movement for 4 days, and often farts. What could be the cause?
Answer
The symptoms described by a 6-month-old baby may indicate weak or disordered intestinal function. If the baby hasn’t had a bowel movement for four days, it’s advisable to use medication immediately and administer oral probiotics to regulate the child’s digestion. In the meantime, massaging the baby’s abdomen can help reduce intestinal motility and improve digestion and absorption. Additionally, it’s recommended to offer the baby mashed complementary foods (please note that they must be mashed, not juice or similar substances). Vegetables and fruits (especially celery and bananas, which are rich in fiber) contain fiber and pectin that can absorb water, swell the stool, and promote intestinal peristalsis. This not only meets the child’s rapid growth and development needs but also aids in lubricating the intestines and promoting bowel movements.