It is a common concern among parents when their baby gets constipated. It is also a condition that should be brought up with the pediatrician. For babies being constipated means harder stool or lesser number of bowel movements or it could be a painful pass of the stool. It is really hard for babies to get constipated. There are natural constipation remedies that are safe for babies. Some natural remedies work as a moderate healthy cleanse which can be good for baby. But remember that it is normal for babies to get constipated once in a while.
Most babies that are formula fed can be more open to being constipated than breastfed babies because breast milk has more water than formula. It is commonly advised for mothers of formula fed babies to let your babies drink water after finishing a bottle. It can help to wash your baby’s mouth from milk residue.
In case your baby gets constipated you can feed him with a diluted prune juice. There are brands that have a diluted prune juice that is designed for babies. If you cannot find something like that you dilute an ounce of prune juice with an ounce of water and feed your baby twice a day. It should not replace the food on milk intake of your baby so make it like a refreshing drink in the morning and in the afternoon.
If your baby is around 4 months and above and has started eating solids then add more fruits and vegetables into his food because this will help him lessen the chances of getting constipated or help him ease constipation. But not all fruits and vegetable can be helpful like bananas and apple can make it worse for your child. Some babies also get constipated on eating carrots and squash. Peaches, plums, and peas can help soften babies’ stools.
Increase liquid intake like water. It can help soften his stool and help him go a lot easier. Add a bottle of water as additional liquid intake because this will help soften the stool. For new born, sometimes a light stomach massage can stimulate the passing of stools.
Some babies tend to be gassy when constipated you can help them flush out those gasses by applying a warm compress on his tummy. Check on the right temperature to avoid burning your baby’s tummy.
It is still best to consult your pediatrician concerning your baby’s bowel movement. Do not buy any over the counter laxatives as they may be harmful to your baby. Let your doctor prescribe the right medication for your baby in case he needs medicines or any constipation remedies that are not natural. Most of the time baby’s normal level of bowel movement may resume after a couple of days or at most a few weeks. In case the medication doesn't work you need to call your doctor to address the problem right away.
