Constipation often occurs among babies and is triggered by a variety of causes, such as illness, medication or a diet that lacks sufficient fluid or fiber, explains FamilyDoctor.org. Babies sometimes become constipated when they first start formula, cow's milk or solid food. If your baby suffers from constipation, the South Dakota Department of Health advises consulting your pediatrician. Depending on your baby's age, the doctor may recommend additional fluids, fiber, probiotics or massage.
Unusual Infrequency
In general, if your baby eats solid food, he should have a bowel movement at least three times a week, explains FamilyDoctor.org. If he makes only one or two dirty diapers per week, he might be constipated, especially if this level of frequency represents a change from his normal pattern. The South Dakota Department of Health presents another type of measurement; if four or five days pass between your baby's bowel movements, he's probably constipated. For a solely breastfed baby, use a different schematic; he may only need to make one dirty diaper per week, explains La Leche League International.
Pain While Defecating
Experiencing pain while having or trying to have a bowel movement indicates constipation. Your baby will reveal this discomfort by crying, explains KidsHealth. Babies normally grunt, strain or grow red in the face while filling dirty diapers; these behaviors do not demonstrate pain.
Hard Texture
When a baby experiences constipation, his stool may become hard, according to FamilyDoctor.org. The stool may form large pieces or many small, round pieces, like a handful of pebbles.
Stomachache or Swollen Belly
If your baby suffers from severe constipation, his stomach may become swollen, explains the South Dakota Department of Health. The swelling occurs because your baby cannot effectively excrete his waste or pass gas. If your baby's stomach seems larger than usual or hard to the touch, or if he seems to have a stomachache, he may be constipated, and you should call your pediatrician.
Blood in the Feces
Blood in your child's dirty diaper might result from constipation, notes the Virtual Pediatric Hospital. The hard stools could have irritated or torn the baby's rectum. Any time you find blood in your child's diaper, call the doctor, warns the South Dakota Department of Health. Your baby may need professional help to relieve his painful constipation, or the blood may signify a more severe internal problem.
