A natural occurrence, constipation can happen at any time, to anyone. For babies, the symptoms of constipation can be similar to those most adults experience (for example, an absence of a bowel movement), but constipation in babies can also show up as a change in consistency of the bowel movements (i.e., hard and dry). Constipation in babies commonly occurs during the transition from breast milk to formula, or the transition from formula to strained foods. There is no need for alarm, however: There are steps you can take to alleviate the constipation.
Step 1
Give your baby 2 to 4 oz. of water per day to provide additional moisture to the intestinal system. Water induces peristalsis, the process by which food is broken down. Intestines contract and relax as food is pushed down to the lower intestines for excretion. Water moistens the food, enabling a smoother journey, and acts as a lubricant in the intestines. Use bottled or distilled water. If your baby seems to take well to the water, increase or decrease as necessary.
Step 2
Give your baby 2 to 4 oz. of a fruit juice, such as apple, prune or pear juice. Juices like these are high in fiber. Fiber is a dietary aid that helps food break down more efficiently. However, juices can be high in sugar and can cause extreme softening of the stool or diarrhea. Mixing the juice and water in equal parts, (i.e., 2 oz. of juice with 2 oz. of water) can alleviate this occurrence.
Step 3
Increase your baby's intake of foods that are high in fiber. Warm oatmeal or barley cereal, pureed pears or prunes, or applesauce are all options for adding more fiber to your baby's diet and relieving constipation. Follow up a serving of these foods with water to ensure effectiveness. Lack of moisture with fiber can actually cause constipation.
Step 4
Give your baby a warm bath. Sit with him and bathe him slowly until the water begins to cool off. Warm baths raise the body temperature; this extra warmth can initiate the peristalsis needed to relieve constipation. Mild stress on the body can cause the anal muscles to restrict, causing constipation. A warm bath can aid in reducing the tension, thereby also relieving the constipation.
Step 5
Massage your baby's tummy. Sometimes a gentle tummy massage can help to relieve the tension causing constipation. After bathing the baby in warm water, moisturize her body with lotion, paying particular attention to her tummy. Use smooth, circular strokes.
Things You'll Need
- Distilled water
- Fruit juice
- Lotion
