Most kids experience constipation at one time or another. Constipation is having difficulty producing a bowel movement, and it's also used to describe a child who does not have a bowel movement more than three times a week. Except for rare instances of underlying illness that contribute to pediatric constipation, this uncomfortable condition is easily treated and is a short-term problem for kids. Constipation in children can be caused by a variety of factors that are largely preventable.
Diet
The health information service KidsHealth, an offshoot of the Nemours Foundation, explains that most kids become constipated due to their diets. Children who eat foods that are high in fat on a regular basis, such as fast food, are more likely to experience chronic constipation than kids who eat meals and snacks from fresher sources. A lack of fiber leads to constipation in school-age children, and can be remedied by adding more fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains into their diets.
Stress
Emotional distress and being in stressful situations can be a cause of a child's constipation. Rites of childhood that all kids go through, such as starting the school year at a new school, being anxious about making new friends or being upset in general, can all affect the digestive system. Some children who have formerly experienced diarrhea while going through periods of stress may alternately become constipated when under emotional duress.
Avoidance
Ignoring the body's signals and urges to have a bowel movement can cause constipation in children. Whether the reason for avoidance is that the child is having too much fun playing with friends or that he's uncomfortable using a public restroom, it's important that he learns to not delay his bodily functions. The longer he waits, the more uncomfortable and longer lasting the constipation may be.
Medications
Children who take antidepressant medications or multivitamins that contain iron may be constipated as a side effect of the drugs or supplements. Babies who drink formula fortified with iron may experience a difficulties with bowel function as well. Switching to a new medication or a vitamin or infant formula with a lower iron content can reverse the condition.
