Infants can develop constipation, a condition that is characterized by painful bowel movements. If this happens on an occasional basis, it's usually not cause for concern. However, if your infant seems to regularly suffer from hard, dry bowel movements, take him to the doctor to get more insight into the problem. The pediatrician may take a look at the child's diet, prescribe infant glycerin suppositories, recommend that the child drink more liquids or examine the baby for more complex issues.
Step 1
Take your infant to the pediatrician if he is having trouble with constipation that lasts more than 2 to 3 days. You should never treat infants for constipation without first consulting a doctor about what is appropriate.
Step 2
Apply a small amount of water-based lubricant to your infant's anus. This can naturally ease the passage of hard stools.
Step 3
Try infant glycerin suppositories, with your doctor's blessing. These suppositories, which are available over-the-counter at most pharmacies, lubricate the anus and make it easier for the infant to pass hard stools without straining. Make sure to thoroughly read the instructions on the packaging before inserting the suppository.
Step 4
Switch to a different formula if your infant is formula-fed. Try an organic version that contains natural ingredients that may be less likely to irritate your baby's digestive system.
Step 5
Give your child 2 to 4 oz. of fruit juice or water a day to loosen up his stools and promote hydration. If your infant is at least 2 months old, doctors often will approve this technique.
Step 6
Keep a record of your infant's food intake, particularly if you have been changing up his formula or introducing new foods to his diet. Constipation can be a sign of food allergies, and the food journal will give the doctor a good idea of where to look next if traditional methods do not ease the infant's constipation troubles.
Step 7
Watch for blood on the outside of the baby's stools. Blood can be a sign that the child has developed an anal fissure, which is a split or tear in the tissue lining the lower rectum. Anal fissures can even cause passing normal stools to be painful, and can lead to constipation because the infant becomes reluctant to go to the bathroom. If your infant has symptoms of an anal fissure, return to the doctor as soon as possible.
Things You'll Need
- Water-based lubricant
- Infant glycerin suppositories
- Formula
- Fruit juice
References
- "The KidsHealth Guide for Parents" ; Steven A. Dowshen, Neil Izenberg and Elizabeth Bass; 2001
- MayoClinic.com; Infant Constipation; May 2011
- HealthyChildren.org; Constipation; May 2011
- AskDrSears.com: Constipation
- Medline Plus; Anal Fissure; Sept. 2010
