6 methods of treating constipation in babies
If your baby seems to be fraying, or if his diaper is full of hard stools, it is a sure sign that things are not moving as they should. If your baby has chronic constipation or if you have blood in your baby’s stool, contact your doctor right away, as these may be serious symptoms.
Increase water consumption
If your baby is breast-fed or bottle-fed, it’s easy to assume that she gets enough water because of a mostly liquid diet. Breast milk provides water for children under 6 months of age. If your baby shows signs of constipation, try giving your baby a 1/4 to 1/2 cup of extra water after each feeding to help the intestines rinse properly for a baby over 6 months old. For infants under 6 months, increase the frequency of breast milk intake.
Fruit juice offer
Pear or apple juice also works well for relieving minor constipation. Most babies quickly develop a preference for juice because of how mild it is. So offer only full-strength juices when your baby is constipated. To avoid the gomines, start slowly with less than ¼ cup of juice after meals. Bananas, rice cereals, carrots and cheese are not good for most infant diets. They also tend to have a binding effect on stool. Foods, pears, prunes and plums are better choices to avoid constipation.
Try a different formula brand
If your baby gets a formula, sometimes a switch is all it takes to relieve constipation. Each baby responds differently to the ingredients of each type of formula, so try a few brands to find the one your baby will tolerate best.
Take your baby’s temperature
Rectal stimulation can help your baby’s intestines move. Use petroleum jelly to lubricate the tip of a rectal thermometer and insert it into the bottom of your baby. Follow the tip gently just a few times before removing it. Stimulation will often result in intermission.
Give him a hot bath
A hot bath will soothe almost everyone. The thought is that warm water will help your baby relax, allowing his body to let go of what he has been holding back.
What has to be done?
Because babies are small, they can quickly become dangerously dehydrated. It is recommended that you never use mineral oil or stimulant laxatives on your baby. If none of the previous tips help relieve your baby’s constipation, a doctor’s visit is necessary to rule out any other potentially serious underlying condition.
