How to manage constipation in my newborn baby?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

I understand how worrying it can be to see your newborn struggle while trying to pass the stool. Please be reassured that this is very common at this age and is usually normal.

Your newborn's struggle to pass stool can be due to:

1. Immature bowel coordination is the most common cause.

2. Normal variation in stool frequency.

It is also normal for stool patterns to change. Some babies pass stools many times a day, while others may go once every couple of days, especially breastfed babies. As long as your baby is feeding well, gaining weight, and producing enough wet diapers, this can be normal.

I suggest you see your doctor if:

1. The stools are hard.

2. There is no stool for more than four to five days.

3. Your baby is vomiting, especially green or yellow vomit.

4. There is poor feeding or poor weight gain.

5. There is blood in the stool or a swollen tummy.

I suggest you follow the steps below for relief:

1. You can gently massage your baby’s tummy, move the legs in a cycling motion, and continue regular feeds. These simple measures often help.

2. Avoid giving water, laxatives, gripe water, or using suppositories or rectal stimulation, as these can do more harm than good.

If you wish, you can tell me whether your baby is breastfed or formula-fed and how often stools are passed, and I can guide you further.

I hope that this answers your query.

Kindly follow up if you have more doubts.

Thank you.