Why does a 2-month-old baby not pass stool regularly?

Question

Hi doctor,

My two-month-old baby girl is not passing stool well regularly and feeds less. This has been going on for the last two days. She is very fussy and does not sleep properly. Her height and weight when checked the last time were 21.2598 inches and 8.37757 pounds. She is taking medicine for vomiting and vitamin drops. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

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It is normal for children below the age of six months to pass stools either 10 to 20 times a day or once every four to five days. Both are fine and are not labeled as constipation or diarrhea. No treatment is required in such cases. Treatment is only required when there is documented fever, lethargy, or refusal to feed.

As per your description, the child is likely having reflux issues (a condition in which stomach acid repeatedly flows back up into the esophageal tube). The weight of the child at one month and 30 days is 8.37757 pounds, which seems a little less. This may either be because the child is being underfed or if the child is having some reflux issues. It is best to get the child evaluated physically by a pediatrician for the same. Further management will depend on a physical examination by the pediatrician. Medications like Perinorm (Metoclopramide 10 mg) and Rantac (antacid) may need to be started for reflux.

Also, an assessment of the amount of feed being consumed by the child would need to be made. If the feeding seems to be less, the child may need to be given top feeds using formula.

I hope that you get your answer.

Please let me know if you need any help.

Thank you.