Baby Constipation: How can I help my newborn poop?

Baby Constipation: How can I help my newborn poop? Well, newborn bowel movements are crucial. You see, these tiny tummy troubles can be quite common for infants. So, in this blog post, we aim to help worried parents know what to do to help their newborn baby poop naturally and ease the little one’s discomfort. 

Our expert in this field – Doctor Eddie has answered the many questions parents have asked us concerning baby constipation.

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Why is my newborn struggling to poop?

Hey, not to worry, Your newborn is experiencing baby constipation because their digestive system is still developing. During the first few weeks of life, their tiny intestines are learning how to coordinate the muscles needed for bowel movements. 

Additionally, their diet primarily consists of breast milk or formula, which can sometimes lead to baby constipation due to the newness of these substances in their system. Therefore, being patient and gentle with your baby as they adjust to these changes is essential.

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How long can a newborn baby go without pooping?

A newborn baby can sometimes go 2 to 3 days without pooping. It’s quite common for breastfed newborns to have infrequent bowel movements, as breast milk is highly digestible, leaving very little waste. 

On the other hand, formula-fed babies have more regular bowel movements. This is when you should be concerned -when your formula-fed baby goes 4 days without pooping and starts showing signs of distress. 

However, the range of normal varies from baby to baby. As long as your newborn seems comfortable, gains weight appropriately, and doesn’t display signs of discomfort or distress, it’s typically not a cause for concern if they go a day or more without pooping. If you have concerns about your baby’s bowel movements, it’s always a good idea to consult with your paediatrician for personalized guidance.

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Signs of constipation in a newborn

Constipation in a newborn is distressing, so how do I know if your newborn is pooping enough? Here are some signs that might indicate constipation in a newborn:

• Infrequent Bowel Movements: If your newborn has not had a bowel movement for several days and this is a significant change from their usual pattern, it could be a sign of constipation.
• Hard Stools: When your baby does have a bowel movement, if the stool is hard and pellet-like or difficult for them to pass, it can suggest constipation.
• Straining: If your baby seems to be in pain and is straining excessively when trying to have a bowel movement, it may be a sign of baby constipation.
• Irritability: Constipation can make babies uncomfortable and fussy. If your baby is unusually irritable, it could be due to constipation.
• Bloody Stools: If you notice any blood in your baby’s stool, it’s essential to contact your paediatrician immediately, as this could indicate a more serious issue.
• Abdominal Discomfort: Your baby might show signs of discomfort, such as arching their back, clenching their fists, or pulling their legs toward their belly, which can be related to constipation.

Factors Contributing to Constipation in Newborns

For a healthy baby, i.e. one without prior medical conditions, these listed factors below are huge players as to why your newborn has baby constipation;

Breastfeeding vs. Formula Feeding

• Breastfed infants often experience less frequent bowel movements compared to formula-fed infants. Breast milk is highly digestible and leaves little waste, which can result in less frequent stools.
• Formula-fed babies, on the other hand, may have more regular bowel movements since formula can be harder to digest than breast milk.
• The type of feeding can influence the consistency and frequency of stools, and some newborns experience baby constipation as their digestive system adapts to the specific type of feeding they receive.

Dehydration

• Newborns are especially susceptible to dehydration, which can lead to baby constipation. They have a higher water requirement per unit of body weight compared to older children and adults.
• Inadequate fluid intake, whether from breastfeeding or formula feeding, can result in firmer stools that are more challenging for a newborn to pass.
• Ensuring your baby is adequately hydrated is crucial to prevent baby constipation.

Introduction of Solid Foods

• Introducing solid foods to your baby’s diet typically occurs around six months of age. This transition can affect their bowel movements.
• The introduction of new foods can sometimes lead to changes in the consistency and frequency of stools as the digestive system adapts to processing solids.
• Some babies may experience temporary constipation when solid foods are first introduced, while others may have looser stools.

Positioning and Comfort During Feeding

• The way you position your baby during feeding can also impact their digestion. Ensure your baby is positioned comfortably to minimize swallowing air, which can lead to gas and discomfort.
• If a baby is uncomfortable or fussy during feeding, they may not feed as effectively, which could contribute to baby constipation.

How can I stimulate my newborn to poop?

Okay, after extensive research, we’ve grouped the tips to help your newborn poop naturally as we are huge fans of natural remedies

Breastfeeding Tips for Smoother Bowel Movements

• Ensure a good latch to help your baby effectively empty the breast.
• Nurse on demand to prevent dehydration and promote more frequent bowel movements.

Formula Feeding

• Follow the recommended formula preparation guidelines.
• Use a nipple with an appropriate flow rate to prevent your baby from swallowing excess air.

Hydration

• Ensure your baby gets enough fluids, whether through breastfeeding or formula feeding. Proper hydration softens stools and prevents constipation.

Massaging, Tummy Time and Gentle Exercises

• Engage your baby in tummy time to encourage movement and stimulate the digestive system.
• Gentle leg-cycling exercises can also help relieve gas and promote regular bowel movements.
• Gently massage your baby’s abdomen in a clockwise motion with your fingertips. Start at the belly button and move outward.
• Use a warm, fragrance-free oil if desired, but be gentle to avoid discomfort.

Diaper Changes

• Ensure the room is comfortably warm during diaper changes to prevent your baby from tensing up due to cold.
• Use soft, gentle wipes and be mindful not to rub or irritate the baby’s skin.

Where to Massage a Newborn to Help with Pooping

• When massaging your newborn to help with pooping, focus on the abdominal area. Here’s how to do it:
• Lay your baby on its back on a soft, comfortable surface, like a changing table or a blanket on the floor.
• Rub your hands together to warm them up a bit, ensuring they are clean and free from any sharp nails or jewellery.
• Begin by placing your fingertips just below the baby’s belly button. Use a gentle, circular motion, and apply slight pressure.
• Continue the circular massage in a clockwise direction. This follows the natural movement of the colon and can help move stool through the digestive system.
• Always be gentle and responsive to your baby’s cues. If your baby seems uncomfortable or fusses, stop the massage.

Home Remedies for Newborn/Baby Constipation

Using Vaseline or any petroleum-based product as a home remedy to help a baby poop is not recommended. While Vaseline is generally safe for external use and can be used as a skin protectant, it should not be applied to the rectal area or used internally. Applying Vaseline or similar products in the baby’s anal area can lead to contamination and may not effectively relieve constipation.

If your newborn is experiencing baby constipation and you’re seeking remedies, it’s best to focus on gentle and non-invasive methods like those we’ve already mentioned, such as bicycle leg exercises, warm water baths, and, if recommended by a paediatrician, prune or pear juice. 

Glycerin suppositories are another option for relieving constipation in babies but should only be used under medical guidance and as a last resort if other methods have not been effective. 

When to Seek Medical Attention for Your Baby’s Constipation

So with all said, these are When should to worry if your baby hasn’t pooped

• If your baby exhibits severe signs of constipation, such as intense abdominal pain, vomiting, blood in the stool, or a distended abdomen, seek medical attention immediately. These could indicate a more serious issue.
• If constipation is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as fever or a lack of appetite, it’s also a reason to contact your pediatrician.
• If your newborn hasn’t had a bowel movement for several days and you’ve tried gentle home remedies without success, it’s a good idea to contact your pediatrician.
• Regular communication with your pediatrician is essential, as they can provide guidance and rule out any underlying medical conditions causing constipation.

Conclusion on Baby Constipation

It’s crucial not to use over-the-counter laxatives or medications without consulting your paediatrician. These products are not typically recommended for newborns, and their use should be supervised by a healthcare professional.

Using such products without proper guidance can be harmful to your baby’s health.

Faqs on Baby Constipation