Question
My baby is three months old and has a stool every eight to nine days. What should I do? Since the baby was a month old, the stool has been irregular, initially every three to four days, then changing to every five to six days, and now it’s been nine days without a bowel movement. Although the baby passes gas normally and has a good appetite, there is no stool. Is this a problem? What are the treatment methods?
Answer
For the situation you mentioned, first observe the child’s mental state and diet. If the child’s stool shape and consistency are normal with each bowel movement, there is no need to worry excessively; this is normal and unlikely to be problematic. If the child’s stool is not formed or particularly dry, it is necessary to pay attention. If the child has not defecated for several days, you can use an enema to help the child defecate, but it is not recommended to use laxatives because the child is still too young and it is bad for their body. Eating too much may also cause rejection reactions. When using an enema, inject the medication into the anus and hold the child’s anus for three minutes before allowing them to defecate. In addition, probiotics such as lactic acid bacteria tablets and multienzyme tablets can be used for treatment in everyday life.