Question
A 19-month-old child has been having a bowel movement only once every few days. How should this situation be handled?
Answer
Based on the description, the child’s constipation may be caused by intestinal dysfunction. It is recommended to give the child probiotics to regulate the intestinal flora. Since the stool is hard, the child may be unwilling to defecate, and a glycerin suppository can be used to soften the stool before encouraging the child to try to defecate. At the same time, it is suggested to give the child more water, engage in moderate outdoor activities, gradually increase the amount of complementary foods, and provide an adequate amount of vegetables and fruits to help the child develop a habit of regular daily defecation. If necessary, you can go to the pediatric department of a hospital for a consultation and receive treatment under the guidance of a doctor. In addition, you can perform clockwise massage on the child’s abdomen or apply sesame oil to the anal opening and gently massage around the anal area to promote defecation.