Most infants who get their nutrition primarily from the breast or bottle produce several bowel movements each day. Occasionally, you might notice your baby straining harder than usual, an indication of constipation. Medications are not required or recommended for infant constipation. Lifestyle changes are usually effective; check with your child's doctor if constipation becomes prolonged or severe.
Diet Changes
A change in diet could cause your infant's constipation, but altering her eating patterns could also be a remedy of sorts. Give your baby water or diluted fruit juice in between feedings to soften the stools. Two to 4 oz. of plain water or watered down prune, apple or pear juice might give your baby the additional moisture and laxative effect she needs to produce a bowel movement more easily. Older babies who are eating baby foods can try prunes or plums to help ease constipation. Otherwise, keeping your infant's diet as consistent as possible -- feedings at the same times of day, using the same brand of formula -- might be all you need to counteract constipation.
Bath
A warm bath and stomach massage are an effective, non-invasive remedy for minor-to-moderate constipation in infants and toddlers. The warmth of the water relaxes your child and gently massaging the stomach can help stimulate his muscles to produce a bowel movement in the bathtub. Equip yourself with plenty of wipes and towels, as this remedy can get messy.
Lubricants
Infant constipation may be eased by lubricating your child's anal area. Dab a fingertip full of a petroleum-based lubricant on your child's anus to help her pass a stool that has become hardened and painful. Applying the lubricant can also stimulate her reflex to defecate. Insert an infant glycerin suppository into your baby's anus to stimulate the bowels when severe constipation is a problem.
Considerations
Infant constipation is normal from time to time but should not become a chronic condition. Babies who are consistently constipated might have an undiagnosed, underlying medical condition that contributes to bowel difficulties. Schedule an appointment with your child's doctor to discuss possible causes of chronic constipation.
