Ah, parenthood! It is likened to a beautiful walk in the park, but sometimes you end up with dog poop all over your shoes. One of the common "dog poop" moments is when your baby gets constipated. Fret not! In this article, we will look at how to tell if your newborn is constipated and what you can do about it.
What is Constipation?
Constipation occurs when stools become hard and difficult to pass through the rectum. This condition can be uncomfortable for babies who don't have the language skills yet to express their discomfort verbally (Lucky them!). While bowel movements differ from one baby to another (See "It’s okay; They Don’t Have A Norm Like The Rest Of Us" below) , there are certain signs that may indicate an infant battling with constipation.
Signs of a Constipated Baby
A few questions for worried parents: Does it seem like ages since your little bundle of joy last pooped? Have they been grunting or wriggling around uncomfortably lately? If yes, then perhaps some detective work may be required on whether junior needs help. Here are several things that indicate possible constipation:
Infrequent Bowel Movements
According to pediatricians, it’s normal for infants under six weeks old not to have any bowel movement between two days or once every ten diaper changes (Diapers should come with little tags stating ‘...This Has Not Been Used By Any Other Human’) . However, after week 6-8 infancy stage comes- where frequency kicks-off typically stretching out up until adulthood in most cases where children might also get into trouble as adults by eating impairedly which leads us back down memory lane of our little ones first time experience known as “poop troubles”.
Distended Belly
If you notice bulging on your baby's belly or abdominal area appearing tight but little la lumpy, then it may be a sign of constipation.
Dry, Hard Stool
The surest indication that the baby is dealing with constipation is if their poop becomes dry and hard.
Straining During Bowel Movement
If your newborn seems to be struggling or bending backward when trying to pass stool - this could indicate difficulty in doing so due to harder-than-normal stools. Similarly, signs such as excessive crying (Because they weren't screaming enough already?) , red face accompanying bowel movements can also show that your baby might be having trouble pooping painlessly.
Causes of Infant Constipation
As we look into the root causes of infant constipation- some which are beyond (literal) poo speculation include:
Formula.
Babies who take formula instead of breast milk may suffer from increased bouts of constipation. (P.S- In other news; Water Is Wet!)
Transitioning into solid Foods
It goes without saying (At least now it does) that introducing solids marks a significant milestone for any parent and child alike! However, considering transitioning too soon or even feeding them foods not suitable at an early age plays a factor in infants' digestive system too!
Remedies for Infant Constipation
Constipated babies can put parents on edge; you wouldn’t want to have ‘that’ restriction between parent-baby bonding over stretches caused by one’s irregular bowel movement experiences right? Even worse yet specifically who loves doing enemas’ with their own kids… fortunately there are numerous things parents can do :
Give Infants More Fluids:
Nursing moms should ensure they empty both breasts before allowing their babies off the hook/nap while bottle-fed ones should receive plenty warm water along with their feeds since hydration aids in softening stool consistency resulting in potentially easier bowels!
Massage That Tummy:
Gentle stomach rubs can boost how the bowels expel poop quickly. In other words, They love it!"
Revisit What Goes into Babies Mouths:
As exciting as transitioning to solid nourishment might appear; parents must take their time in feeding babies purees not too soon from birth and ensuring a gradual approach even if they are ready to eat!
Talk To Your Pediatrician
If these measures do not ease your baby's constipation or lead to more concerns? You know what time it is- just pick up that phone on the Frigidaire magnet and get some directions/tips for you from your pediatrician.
It’s okay; They Don’t Have A Norm Like The Rest Of Us
When noting signs of a possible infantile stool difficulty-a common question arises afterward for all us first-time parents faced with hard-to-read discernment struggles- "what sign(s) should I be monitoring?" (Referencing back) depending on various factors there is no straightforward answer but doing intuitive assessments (not forgetting professional guidance), always plays an integral part down this path!
For example, an older child typically poops two times per day, while newborn infants tend to defecate several times throughout the day (College grads who have been unemployed can relate here) . Therefore, any parent dealing with her/his bambino‘s toilet situation should take note of what becomes typical concerning amounts/frequency relative growth progression until toddlerhood mingles in then so forth(a golden opportunity gone).
Conclusion
How comforting i/s when one knows that stiff stools are indeed uncomfortable or rather painful experiences our tiny humans face/ we cause them- something which allows new moms/dads some bargaining power come diaper change-negotiating table as opposed to feeling utterly responsible 24/7!(This whole thing better make me qualify for MAC makeup deals). With the knowledge garnered above, you can monitor signs indicating possible impaction, be more attentive to dietary intake (bandage? maybe!); And my dear Mom/Dad reader- remember always... prevention is better than the cure especially with cute harmless little human beings who are counting on us!