Kezia Cochran
It is more common for formula-fed babies to experience constipation than breastfed babies. This is because formula is thicker and harder to digest, and breast milk is considered a natural laxative. However, not all formula-fed babies will be constipated, and not all breastfed babies are free from constipation. If you're concerned about your baby's digestion, it's worth noting that constipation in newborns can be caused by a variety of factors, including diet, lack of fluids, and exposure to new foods.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Breastfed vs formula-fed constipation likelihood | Formula-fed babies are more likely to be constipated than breastfed babies |
| Formula type | There is no formula proven to decrease or prevent constipation |
| Diet | A lack of fibre in a baby's diet may cause constipation |
| Fluids | A lack of fluids can make a baby's stool harder to pass |
| Age | Constipation is defined by two or more of the following characteristics: less than two defecations per week, excessive stool retention, painful or hard bowel movements, large-diameter stools, and a large fecal mass in the rectum |
| Symptoms | Signs of constipation include infrequent bowel movements, hard bowel movements, blood on the surface of the stool, pain while passing bowel movements, and a lack of interest in food |
| Treatment | Remedies for constipation include bicycle kicks, infant massage, bathing, and dietary changes such as offering high-fibre foods or prune juice |
What You'll Learn
Add prune, apple, or pear juice to their diet
Adding Prune, Apple, or Pear Juice to a Newborn's Diet
Prune, apple, or pear juice can be added to a newborn's diet to help prevent constipation. These juices contain sorbitol, a type of sugar that acts as a natural laxative, helping to soften stools and promote regular bowel movements.
It is important to note that the introduction of any new foods or liquids to newborns should be done cautiously and under the guidance of a pediatrician. According to some sources, doctors do not recommend giving fruit juice to infants under one year of age unless advised by a doctor. Therefore, it is always best to consult a healthcare provider before making any dietary changes.
For babies over six months old, a small amount of 100% prune, apple, or pear juice diluted with water may be offered. The recommended amount of juice varies depending on the age of the baby. Babies aged 4 to 8 months should consume no more than 2 to 4 ounces, while babies 8 to 12 months can have up to 6 ounces. It is important not to exceed 4 ounces of undiluted juice per day for toddlers over one year old.
In addition to prune, apple, or pear juice, parents can also introduce high-fibre foods such as pureed prunes, plums, pears, peaches, and peas to further aid in preventing constipation.
Newborn Spit-Up: Is It Normal or a Concern?
You may want to see also
Try bicycle kicks
If your newborn is constipated, bicycle kicks are a great way to help them relieve their discomfort. To perform bicycle kicks, follow these steps:
Lay your baby on a soft blanket on the floor or on an activity mat. Sit in front of them and gently bend their legs toward their chest, or circle their legs in a gentle bicycling motion. This position makes it easier for your baby to pass stool than lying flat on their back. You can also try to gently massage their stomach and have skin-to-skin contact, which may improve their digestive system.
You can also try to incorporate tummy time while performing bicycle kicks. The pressure of the floor on your baby's tummy can help to alleviate gas and constipation. Just be sure to wait at least 20 minutes after feeding before engaging in tummy time to reduce the chance of your baby spitting up.
In addition to bicycle kicks, there are other remedies you can try to help relieve your newborn's constipation. A warm bath can help your baby's muscles relax and allow for easier bowel movements. Taking your baby's temperature with a rectal thermometer may also stimulate their bowels. If your baby is eating solid foods, try offering high-fibre options like pureed prunes or peas, or cereal with barley or whole wheat.
If your baby is at least four months old, you can try offering them a small amount of 100% apple, prune, or pear juice diluted with water. These juices contain sorbitol, a type of sugar that acts as a natural laxative. However, be sure to check with your doctor before introducing any new liquids to your baby's diet.
Remember, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider if you suspect your baby is constipated. They can help identify any potential allergies or underlying causes and determine the best course of action for your baby's specific needs.
Newborn Poop Schedules: What's Normal?
You may want to see also
Give them a tummy massage
Massaging your baby's tummy can be an effective way to help relieve constipation. Before you begin, ensure the room is warm and create a relaxing environment by turning off the TV and any other distractions. Play some soothing music and use dim lighting to help your baby stay calm.
Warm Up Your Hands
Warm your hands by rubbing them together or by running them under warm water. You can also warm the oil or lotion you plan to use by placing the container in warm water for a few minutes. Test the temperature on yourself before applying it to your baby's skin.
Choose the Right Oil
Use natural baby oil or an all-natural vegetable or fruit-based oil such as grape seed oil or olive oil. Avoid products that contain harmful chemicals like phenoxyethanol.
Massage Techniques
Place your warmed hands on your baby's tummy, at or below the belly button. Using flat palms, gently stroke downward, using a hand-over-hand, paddling motion. Then, move your hands in a clockwise motion—this is very important, as going in the wrong direction can create more issues.
Try the "I Love You" massage technique:
- With your baby lying on the floor facing you, trace the letter "I" on their left side.
- Next, draw an "L" starting on their right side, across the top of their tummy, and down their left side.
- Finally, draw an upside-down "U" by tracing an "I" on their right side, crossing their tummy, and ending with an "I" on the left side.
- Finish by stroking down a few times on the tummy.
During the tummy massage, your baby may have a bowel movement or release some air. You may want to leave their nappy off during the massage, but be sure to have something underneath in case of accidents.
Other Tips
- If your baby doesn't tolerate tummy massage well, you can try moving their legs in a cycling motion while they lie on their back. This will put gentle pressure on the intestines and help move things along.
- A warm bath can also help your baby relax and pass stools more easily. You can massage their stomach while they're in the bath or afterward.
Ergo Newborn Insert: How Long Should You Use It?
You may want to see also
Give them extra water
Extra water can help to soften your newborn's stools if they are formula-fed and experiencing constipation. However, it is important to check with your doctor first for their recommendations on the amount and types of liquids to give your baby.
If your baby is over 6 months old, you can give them a small amount of 100% prune, apple, or pear juice diluted with water. These juices contain sorbitol, a type of sugar that acts as a laxative and may help with constipation.
It is important to note that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that children under one year old should not consume juice unless it is medically necessary. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before giving your baby juice.
Additionally, if your baby is already eating solids, you can offer them fiber-rich foods such as peas, prunes, and baby cereals made with whole wheat or barley instead of rice, as these options contain more fiber.
Newborn Vomiting Through Nose: Is It Normal?
You may want to see also
Include more fibre in their diet
Newborns are usually fed on demand, meaning they are fed whenever they seem hungry. This is usually every 2 to 3 hours for newborns and young babies, and as they grow, they can go for 3 to 4 hours without feeding.
Constipation is a common issue in newborns, and one way to prevent this is by including more fibre in their diet.
Breast milk is the ideal food for newborns, as it is easily digestible and contains the perfect balance of nutrients. However, if you are formula-feeding, it is important to choose a formula that is suitable for your baby's age and contains the necessary nutrients.
When it comes to increasing fibre intake, it is important to note that newborns should not be given solid foods until they are at least 6 months old. Therefore, the fibre content in their diet will come solely from the formula.
To include more fibre in your newborn's diet:
- Choose a formula with added prebiotics: Prebiotics are a type of fibre that acts as food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy digestive system. Look for formulas that contain ingredients like galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) or fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), which are naturally found in breast milk.
- Opt for formulas with added fibre: Some formulas are specifically designed to have a higher fibre content. These formulas often contain ingredients like soy fibre, polydextrose, or galactooligosaccharides, which can help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
- Consider specialty formulas: If your baby is particularly prone to constipation, you may want to consult your paediatrician or a healthcare professional about specialty formulas. These formulas are designed for babies with digestive issues and may include hydrolysed protein, which is easier for your baby to digest.
- Monitor your baby's reaction: When introducing a new formula, pay close attention to your baby's reaction. It may take a few days for their system to adjust to the increased fibre intake. Observe their bowel movements, and if you notice any discomfort or persistent constipation, consult your healthcare provider.
- Transition gradually: If you are switching formulas, do so gradually to give your baby's digestive system time to adjust. Avoid switching brands multiple times, as this can cause digestive issues.
By following these steps and choosing the right formula, you can help prevent constipation in your newborn and promote their overall digestive health.
Are Newborns' Purple Feet a Concern for Parents?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Constipation in newborns can manifest as infrequent or less frequent bowel movements, hard bowel movements that resemble pellets or rocks, blood on the surface of the stool or when wiping, pain while passing bowel movements (which may appear as an arched back, a red face, and crying), and a lack of interest in food. It's important to remember that the number of bowel movements can vary greatly among newborns, and constipation is not solely determined by frequency but also by the hardness of the stool.
Breast milk is generally easier for newborns to digest and is considered a natural laxative. In contrast, formula is thicker due to its larger protein content, making it harder for newborns to digest and leading to gastrointestinal issues, including constipation.
To prevent constipation, ensure you are correctly measuring the formula powder and water ratio according to the instructions on the formula packet. Adding too much formula can lead to constipation and dehydration. Additionally, you can offer your newborn extra water between feeds and gently massage their tummy to stimulate the bowel and help manage any discomfort.
