Why has my 15-day-old baby not passed stool for 5 days?

Question

Hello doctor,

My baby girl is 15 days old and has jaundice. Her bilirubin level was 311, and the doctor mentioned that at her age, it is no longer a risk. She has not passed stool for the past five days. Previously, she was given a Glycerin suppository, which helped her pass a large amount of stool.

Would it be safe to give her another Glycerin suppository now, considering the last one was given five days ago?

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq. com.

I have read the query and understand the concern.

In a 15-day-old newborn, passing stool can sometimes be irregular, especially in breastfed babies. Some infants may go a few days without passing stool as long as they are feeding well, remain active, and are passing urine normally. However, an absence of stool for five days in a neonate requires careful consideration.

Occasional use of a Glycerin suppository can be safe, but it should not be used repeatedly without medical advice, as frequent use may lead to dependence on stimulation for passing stool.

Since there is also a history of significant jaundice (bilirubin 311 micromoles per liter [µmol/L]), it is important to ensure adequate feeding and regular stool passage, as stool helps in the elimination of bilirubin from the body.

Before considering another suppository, non-invasive measures should be tried first. These include ensuring frequent breastfeeding (every two to three hours), gentle abdominal massage, and bicycle leg movements.

If the baby remains comfortable, is feeding well, and does not have abdominal distension, observation for a short period may be reasonable. However, if there is abdominal distension, vomiting, poor feeding, persistent jaundice, or continued absence of stool, prompt evaluation by a pediatrician is recommended.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.