Dealing With Your Baby’s Constipation

You will get to know your baby’s bowel movements, and you’ll recognise what’s normal for them. Don’t worry if they strain for a few minutes during their bowel movements. This straining is common for young babies because they have weak abdominal muscles; as long as it comes out soft, they won’t be constipated.

Symptoms and signs of constipation in babies

• Hard, dry or lumpy poo
• Excessive or smellier wind
• Loss of appetite
• Arched back or crying during their bowel movement
• Decreased energy
• Irritability

Baby constipation causes

Is it a change in their diet?

The swap from breast milk to infant formula can sometimes cause constipation in babies, as can the introduction of solid foods. When your baby is little, their digestive system is still developing and learning how to cope.

Do they get enough fluids?

Don’t forget to hydrate your baby, as a lack of fluids can make your baby’s poo harder and more difficult to push out. If your baby is teething or has a cold they may not drink or eat as much, causing dehydration.

Are they eating enough fibre?

If your baby is older and eating solid foods, a lack of fibre might be the cause of their constipation. Make sure they are getting enough fruit and vegetables — five-a-day is a good place to start.

Treating constipation in babies

Move your baby’s knees

To help relieve constipation, you can lay them on their back and gently move your baby’s legs as though they’re on a bicycle, slowly – they don’t have to be a speed racer. This leg exercise will help to get things moving on the inside.

Keep their fluids topped up

Cool some boiled water for bottle-fed babies and give it to them in-between feeds. For older babies eating solid foods, keep topping up their little sippy cups or glasses with water.

Add more fibre to their diet

The best foods for constipation in babies are the 3 ‘Ps’: pears, prunes and peas, which act as a natural laxative. You could also swap rice cereal for multigrain, barley or whole-wheat cereal as these contain more fibre.

When to seek further support

Constipation in babies is common and usually settles with small changes at home. But if the tips above aren’t helping, speak to your health visitor or healthcare professional for advice.

For more guidance and tips, explore the Capricare® Parents Support Hub.