Baby Constipation
It's not as bad as you think!

Baby constipation can be a real challenge to new parents.

You worry about whether or not your infant is poohing often enough and if everything is alright. It can actually even be a bit scary.

You're not the only parent who worries about constipation in babies!

I remember my sister-in-law having a terrible time with her first two newborns and their bowels. Bless her heart, she even resorted to baby-sized suppositories at times.

I don't want you to have to do the same thing. There are ways to ease not only your fears, but also any possible constipation that your little one is experiencing.

Some people don't think babies really experience constipation much. If it's your infant that is screaming in pain with a hard abdomen or only passing dry little pellets, then you probably would disagree.

Causes of Baby Constipation

Babies that are breast fed are much less likely to have constipation than those that are fed with formula. If you feel your baby has constipation and you are bottle feeding, the formula may be too strong or the wrong kind.

Some formulas are enriched with iron. Too much iron in the system can cause constipation. 

If you aren't using a formula that contains extra iron and you've tried changing formulas without any change, try diluting the formula with more water. Your baby may just need a weaker mixture for a while to free up the bowels.

Remedies for Constipation in Babies

The most common symptoms of constipation in babies are pain and discomfort, a hard abdomen, and a dry, pellet-like stool. If your baby has these symptoms and you are concerned, here are some natural remedies that may give some relief.

1. Give more water - just like in adults, a lack of water intake can contribute to baby constipation.
   
   
2. A warm bath will soothe and relax your baby and may make it easier for the bowel motion to pass.
   
   
3. Gently massage the tummy and abdomen to stimulate movement in the intestines.
   
   
4. Bicycle your baby's legs. The "exercise" will also help things to get moving along.
   
   
5. Add a teaspoon of fresh squeezed orange juice to some water for your baby to drink. Even that small amount of juice can help to bring on a bowel motion.
   
   
6. A little bit of prune juice or pureed prunes will do the trick, but some professionals don't recommend giving prunes to babies under 9 months old.
   
   

Have you used one of these or some other baby constipation remedy with success? Please add your comments in the form below to help other moms and dads who are worried about their little ones. 

Feel free to ask questions as well. We'll do our best to provide you with the answers you are looking for.

To your good health!

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