Facts about Constipation
Constipation in infants less than one year of age can be a source of concern for parents. Sometimes your baby is not really constipated, but must be given time to set his own schedule for having a bowel movement. Remember that some grunting and straining is normal. Generally, an infant's stool is soft and easily passed. Irregular bowel movements do not necessarily mean a baby is constipated.
In very rare cases, constipation may be caused by a lack of nerves or by structural problems in the lower large intestine. Your baby can be tested for these conditions if your doctor feels it is necessary.
Signs of Constipation
Infants who are constipated usually strain and show discomfort with the passage of a bowel movement. The stool may be formed like small, hard pebbles or wide and large. There may also be blood in or on the outside of the stool. Sometimes solid stool stays inside and liquid stool (like diarrhea) may pass out around it. Your child's abdomen (belly) can become swollen with gas, and cramping pain can result from constipation.
Treatment for Constipation
If your baby is old enough to eat strained foods, you may give him fruits and vegetables. If your baby is not eating jarred baby food yet, and your doctor approves, you may give him fruit juices (prune, pear, cherry or apple). If his stools become too loose, just give him less juice. If your baby is eating rice cereal, it may help to switch to oatmeal or barley cereal. Rice cereal can cause constipation.
Do not give your baby enemas, laxatives or suppositories unless you are directed to do so by your doctor.