Constipation in Infants

What is Constipation in Infants?

Constipation refers to difficulty in passing stool, often resulting in hard stools that cause discomfort or pain. Signs of constipation may include:

• Straining or crying while trying to pass stool
• Hard, dry stools
• Foul-smelling stool
• Loss of appetite
• Tense or bloated abdomen
• Occasional leakage of liquid stool

Since an infant’s digestive system is highly sensitive, even small changes in diet can lead to constipation.

Common Causes of Constipation

Introduction of solid foods

When babies start eating solids, their digestive system adapts, sometimes leading to constipation.

Dehydration

Not consuming enough fluids can make stools harder and more difficult to pass.

Illness

Infections or fever can lead to dehydration and constipation.

Food sensitivities or allergies

Some infants may react to certain foods, affecting stool consistency.

Congenital conditions (rare)

Some medical conditions can cause difficulties in passing stool.

Psychological or behavioral factors

During weaning, some infants develop stool-withholding behaviors due to fear of pain.

When stool builds up in the intestines, it can cause small tears around the anus, leading to discomfort, leakage, and an increased reluctance to pass stool—worsening the cycle.

How Often Should an Infant Poop?

• Breastfed infants – Stool frequency varies widely, from multiple times a day to once every seven days. The stool is typically soft and yellow, resembling mustard seeds.
• Formula-fed infants – Generally pass stool around twice a day until the age of one. Before solids are introduced, stool consistency is more uniform, resembling peanut butter in texture and brown in color.

Dietary and health changes – The addition of vitamins, dietary shifts, and illnesses can all affect stool consistency and frequency.

Tips to Relieve Constipation in Infants

• Increase fluid intake – Offer small amounts of warm or room-temperature water to help soften stool.
• Dried figs (4+ months) – Soak dried figs in warm water for an hour, then offer the water to the baby. Alternatively, boil figs, cool, strain, and serve. Older infants may benefit from mashed figs or diluted fig juice.
• Tomatoes (4+ months) – A small amount of peeled and deseeded tomatoes may help ease constipation.
• Warm baths – Help relax the abdominal muscles, easing bowel movements.
• Gentle abdominal massage – Using circular motions in a clockwise direction can help relieve discomfort.
• Bicycle leg movements – Moving the infant’s legs in a pedaling motion may help stimulate digestion.
• Correct bottle preparation – If using formula, ensure it is mixed according to the manufacturer’s instructions, as incorrect ratios can contribute to constipation.
• Avoid constipating foods – Limit intake of rice, bananas, white flour products, processed foods, and fatty foods.
• Increase fiber intake – Once solid foods are introduced, incorporating fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help maintain regularity.
• Avoid external stimulation – Do not use items to stimulate the anus unless directed by a doctor.

Constipation is usually temporary and manageable with dietary and lifestyle adjustments. However, if constipation persists or is accompanied by vomiting, weight loss, or extreme discomfort, consult a healthcare provider.