
Breastfed babies rarely become constipated because breast milk is easily digested and creates almost no solid waste. Formula-fed babies, on the other hand, tend to experience constipation more often. Constipation is characterised by infrequent bowel movements that are hard, dry, and difficult to pass. While constipation is uncommon in newborns, it can be uncomfortable for them, especially when they are straining to poop. If you suspect your newborn is constipated, you may want to try Little Remedies, an over-the-counter glycerin suppository that stimulates a bowel movement. However, it is important to consult your doctor before using any medication to treat your baby's constipation.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
What is constipation? | Constipation is when a baby's stool is hard, dry, and difficult to pass. |
What causes constipation? | A change in diet, such as starting solids, switching from breast milk to formula, or exposure to new foods and flavors. |
What are the symptoms of constipation? | - Straining while trying to pass a bowel movement |
- Unsettled behavior, fussiness, or irritation
- Eating less or feeding less well than usual
- Tears or cracks in the skin around the anus
- A bloated or larger-than-usual stomach | | How can you treat constipation? | - Dietary changes: increasing fiber intake, offering water or prune/pear juice, or changing formula
- Exercise: simulating riding a bicycle with their legs or a warm bath to relax their abdominal muscles
- Massage: gently rubbing their stomach in a clockwise pattern or using a rectal thermometer to stimulate the bowels |
What You'll Learn
Little Remedies is safe for newborns
Little Remedies is a safe, effective way to help newborns pass stool without causing discomfort. It is designed to be gentle on a newborn's sensitive digestive system.
Little Remedies is a natural laxative that helps to stimulate the bowels and promote regular bowel movements. It is made from natural ingredients, including prune juice, which acts as a gentle laxative and is safe for newborns. Prune juice contains sorbitol, which has a laxative effect and helps to draw water into the intestines, making it easier for your baby to pass stool.
Little Remedies is also free from harsh chemicals, artificial ingredients, and additives, so you can be sure that you are not exposing your newborn to any potentially harmful substances.
If your newborn is having difficulty passing stool, Little Remedies can help. It is important to remember that newborns have sensitive digestive systems, and it is normal for them to have fewer bowel movements than older babies. However, if your newborn seems to be in pain or is uncomfortable, it is important to consult your doctor.
Little Remedies is a safe and effective way to help your newborn pass stool without causing discomfort. It can be used as needed to help your newborn have regular bowel movements, and you can be assured that you are using a natural, gentle product that is safe for your baby.
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It helps newborns poop by relieving constipation
Little Remedies: Helping Newborns Poop by Relieving Constipation
Little Remedies is a range of products designed to provide relief for infants and young children experiencing common ailments, including constipation. While constipation is less common in newborns, especially those exclusively breastfed, it can still occur during the transition to solid foods or when introducing formula. Little Remedies offers several solutions to help newborns poop by relieving constipation, ensuring their comfort and well-being.
Identifying Constipation in Newborns
It's important to first understand the signs of constipation in newborns. Constipation is characterised by infrequent bowel movements, typically less than three times per week, and the production of hard, dry, or cracked stools. Newborns may exhibit signs of discomfort, such as straining, crying, or fussiness during bowel movements. Other indicators include a distended abdomen, reduced appetite, or the presence of blood in the stool.
Little Remedies for Constipation Relief
Little Remedies offers a range of gentle and effective solutions to help relieve constipation in newborns:
- Dietary Changes: Little Remedies suggests dietary modifications as a first line of defence against constipation. For newborns who are starting solid foods, they recommend introducing high-fibre foods such as pureed prunes, pears, or peas. Whole grains like oatmeal, wheat, or barley cereal can also aid in relieving constipation. These dietary additions provide bulk and increase fibre intake, making it easier for newborns to pass stool.
- Fluid Intake: Adequate fluid intake is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements. Little Remedies suggests offering newborns small amounts of water or fruit juice, such as prune or pear juice, to help relieve constipation. The sugar in these juices acts as a natural laxative, increasing the frequency and water content of stools. However, it is important to consult a paediatrician before introducing juice to a newborn's diet.
- Gentle Massage: Little Remedies recommends gently massaging the newborn's abdomen in a clockwise circular motion. This stimulation can help relax the abdominal muscles and encourage bowel movements. Additionally, gently pushing the feet toward the belly while holding the knees and feet together may provide relief.
- Warm Bath: A warm bath can be soothing and help relax the newborn's abdominal muscles, reducing any straining and discomfort associated with constipation.
- Leg Exercise: For newborns who are not yet mobile, Little Remedies suggests gentle leg exercises to stimulate bowel function. This can be achieved by gently moving the newborn's legs in a bicycling motion while they lie on their back.
Medical Advice Disclaimer
It is important to note that this information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If constipation persists or other symptoms are present, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance and treatment options.
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It is a glycerin suppository
Little Remedies is a glycerin suppository that can be used to help newborns poop. Glycerin suppositories are a type of laxative that can be used to stimulate a bowel movement in babies who are constipated. They are typically recommended for infants who have firm stools less than once a day, are straining to pass stools, or are experiencing abdominal discomfort along with hard, infrequent stools.
Glycerin suppositories are generally safe for newborns and infants, but it is always best to consult with a doctor before using any over-the-counter medication, especially for young babies. To use a glycerin suppository, it is recommended to moisten it with a little water before gently inserting it into the rectum as far as possible, using a finger. It is important to remain still for a while after insertion to help hold the suppository in place, and it should start to work within about 20 minutes.
Glycerin suppositories are typically available in infant sizes of around 1.5 grams, and they can be found at most pharmacies or online. They are often individually wrapped for convenience and hygiene. When using glycerin suppositories, it is important to follow the instructions on the packaging and to wash hands before and after use.
In addition to glycerin suppositories, there are also other home remedies that can help relieve constipation in newborns, such as dietary changes, exercise, and abdominal massage. It is important to remember that breastfed infants may naturally have less frequent bowel movements, and that constipation becomes more common once solid foods are introduced. If home remedies do not provide relief, it is recommended to consult a doctor for further advice and potential medical treatment.
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It is placed in the newborn's rectum
How to Use Glycerin (Infant) Suppositories to Help Newborns Poop
Glycerin suppositories are a type of medication that can be used to help newborns poop by stimulating a bowel movement. They are placed in the newborn's rectum and are typically recommended by a doctor if home remedies have not been successful in relieving constipation.
- Wash your hands: It is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after administering the suppository to ensure proper hygiene and prevent infection.
- Prepare the suppository: If the suppository is wrapped in foil, remove the wrapper. If the suppository is too soft to insert, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or run cold water over it before removing the foil. Do not use petroleum jelly or mineral oil as it may reduce the effectiveness of the suppository.
- Position the newborn: Place the newborn on their left side with their right knee slightly bent. This position provides easy access to the rectum and ensures comfort for the baby.
- Insert the suppository: Using your finger, gently insert the suppository well up into the newborn's rectum, pointed end first. Be gentle and careful during insertion to avoid causing any discomfort or injury.
- Hold the newborn's position: After insertion, keep the newborn in the same position for 15 to 20 minutes if possible. This allows the suppository to stimulate a bowel movement effectively. You may notice a strong urge to have a bowel movement during this time.
- Monitor for side effects: Rectal irritation, burning, abdominal discomfort, or cramps may occur as side effects. If any of these persist or worsen, consult your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- Consult a doctor if needed: If there is no bowel movement after using the suppository or if you have any concerns, contact your doctor. Do not use the suppository more than once daily unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.
Remember, it is important to use glycerin suppositories as directed by your doctor or as instructed on the product package. They should only be used for rectal administration and should not be swallowed.
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It is not to be overused
Little Remedies is a safe and gentle way to help your newborn pass stool, but it is not to be overused. While it can be effective in relieving constipation, it is important to remember that it is still a form of medication and should be used sparingly. Overuse of any medication can lead to a variety of problems, including:
- Dependency: If used too often, your baby's body may become dependent on the medication to pass stool, making it difficult for them to do so on their own. This can lead to long-term constipation issues.
- Side effects: As with any medication, there is a risk of side effects such as stomach cramps, diarrhoea, or skin irritation. While these side effects may be mild, they can still cause discomfort for your newborn.
- Masking underlying issues: Constipation in newborns can sometimes be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. By only treating the symptom with Little Remedies, you may be masking a more serious issue that requires medical attention.
- Interference with other medications: If your newborn is taking other medications, using Little Remedies too frequently may interfere with their effectiveness. It is always important to consult your doctor before using any medication, especially if your child is already taking other prescriptions.
Remember, Little Remedies is meant to be used occasionally and should not replace natural methods of relieving constipation, such as dietary changes, exercise, and massage. If your newborn is frequently constipated, it is important to consult your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions and to receive guidance on the best course of treatment. While Little Remedies can be a safe and effective tool, it is not a substitute for proper medical care and should not be overused.
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Frequently asked questions
Constipation is when a baby's stool is hard and dry, making it difficult for them to pass a bowel movement.
Your baby may show signs of straining when trying to pass a bowel movement. They may also be unsettled, fussy, or irritated.
One of the main causes of constipation in babies is a change in diet, such as changing from being formula-fed or breastfed, exposure to new foods and flavours, or not drinking enough liquids.
There are several home remedies that can help relieve constipation in babies, including dietary changes, exercise movements, and massage. If these do not help, a caregiver may need to seek medical advice.