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10/24/2008 - by Anne Marie Nielson
  
Baby Constipation

It's amazing how quickly new parents become absorbed with keeping track of how often their little one pees and poos. While there is no "normal" number to aim for, it is a good idea for you to be familiar with your baby's routine. Some babies seem to fill a diaper every time you change them, while others can spend a few days with wet diapers only, and then spend a day emptying their bowels before repeating the pattern.

Babies do get constipated sometimes, and knowing the signs will help you be able to give your baby relief as soon as possible. The most obvious sign is even fewer bowel movements than is normal for your child. Watch them to see if they are acting uncomfortable. Alternatively, liquid stools can also be a sign of constipation, as the liquid slips right past any blockage that exists.

Babies get constipated from many things. If your baby eats formula, it has been known to cause constipation sometimes. Exclusively breastfed babies are rarely constipated. Formula, however, can leave proteins and other bits in the bowel, which then cause a stool that becomes dry and hard. If the brand of formula you use is causing your baby to become constipated, you may want to switch to a different brand.

Introducing solid food can sometimes cause a mild case of constipation. Rice cereal, one of the earliest foods that are introduced, can bind the stool sometimes. If the baby isn't getting enough fluids, this can cause dehydration and compound the problem. Some babies also develop constipation from an illness or medical condition such as hypothyroidism, metabolic disorders or other problem. If constipation remains a problem, see your doctor for evaluation.

To help your baby get through constipation, give him some exercise. If your baby is too young to crawl, lay him on his back and move his legs back and forth in a circular pattern, like riding a bicycle. Massaging baby's belly can help as well. Place your fingers below baby's navel and press gently but firmly until you feel a mass. Gentle, constant pressure can help. Try to maintain it for about three minutes.

If you're feeding rice cereal, switch baby to oats or barley. They contain more fiber. Another alternative would be to add pureed vegetables or fruit to bay's cereal when they are ready for solid foods. Foods that can cause constipation include rice, bananas, and carrots. Fruit juice or pureed fruit can help loosen the stool.

In severe cases, you may be told to use glycerin suppositories. Inserting them into the rectum helps loosen the sphincter muscle a tiny bit, and the glycerin melts and lubricates the stool so it can come out. Other suggestions you can try include lactulose, which is a sugar that cannot be absorbed by the body. It will help water to combine with the dry stool for easy passage. Consult your doctor about the proper dose. Some people also use Karo corn syrup to achieve the same effect.

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Source: http://www.frompregnancytobaby.com/Articles/Baby-Constipation.html