Question
A 50-day-old girl baby has not defecated for three days, although she is eating normally. What should be done?
Answer
The mother can drink more water and ensure that the feeding speed is not too fast. The formula milk can be diluted a bit, and gentle abdominal massage can help the baby defecate. While helping the baby defecate, gently press the baby’s legs to assist with straining. When the baby is straining to defecate, you can use a rectal lubricant (available as baby-specific products in pharmacies). Additionally, it is recommended to start introducing vegetable soup after the baby is one month old and drink more vegetable soup with each meal, which can help improve constipation. Eating more vegetables by the mother can also promote the baby’s defecation.