Constipation in infants, although worrying about many parents, is generally benign and can often be managed with simple measures. This article explores the causes, symptoms and solutions to help relieve constipated babies.
What is constipation in babies?
Constipation in babies is defined as less frequent, difficult and often painful bowel movements. It is characterised by hard, dry and bulky stools. Unlike babies fed on infant milk, exclusively breastfed babies can have very variable stools without this necessarily being a sign of constipation.
Symptoms of constipation
Common symptoms include:
- Reduced frequency of bowel movements: less than two bowel movements per week.
- Hard, dry stools: small and difficult to pass.
- Discomfort and pain: baby may show signs of pain during evacuation, such as crying, squirming or turning red.
- Bloating and hard abdomen: The abdomen may feel hard and bloated.
Causes of constipation
- Diet: Changes in diet, such as switching from breast milk to infant formula or the introduction of solid foods, can cause constipation. In fact, commercial infant formulas are more constipating.
- Inadequate hydration: insufficient fluid intake can make stools harder and more difficult to pass.
- Psychological and environmental factors: stress, changes in routine or an environment that is not conducive to bowel movements can also play a role, such as unsuitable, non-physiological childcare equipment that puts babies in positions that are not recommended.
Managing constipation in breastfed babies
- Hydration and breastfeeding :
- Increase feedings: offering the breast more frequently can help to improve the baby’s hydration and soften the stools.
- Offer water: for exclusively breastfed babies, increasing the number of feeds is often sufficient**.** For formula-fed babies over 6 months of age, we recommend water such as Hépar or Vittel.
- Massage techniques and exercises :
- Abdominal massages: gently massaging your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction can stimulate bowel movements.
- Pedalling exercises: moving your baby’s legs as if they were pedalling a bike can also help relieve constipation.
- Food and fibre:
- Gradual introduction of solid foods: after 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding, when introducing solids, favouring fibre-rich foods such as fruit purées (prunes, pears) and cooked vegetables can help prevent constipation.
- Avoid constipating foods: limiting foods known to constipate, such as unripe bananas and rice cereals, can help.
- Medical advice:
- Warning signs: if the baby shows signs of intense pain, blood in the stools, fever or vomiting, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional.
- Assessment and treatment: in the event of persistent constipation, a doctor will be able to assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment. Sometimes a glycerine suppository will be recommended.
Prevent constipation
- Hydration: make sure your baby is getting enough fluids. For breastfed babies, this means frequent or effective feedings. If not, your baby may become constipated.
- Balanced diet: when solid foods are introduced, be sure to offer a diet rich in fibre and fluids to maintain soft stools.
- Routine and environment: creating a regular evacuation routine and a calm, reassuring environment for bowel movements can help prevent constipation.
Conclusion
Constipation in breastfed babies can be worrying, but it is often manageable with simple interventions. Increasing feedings, using massage techniques and ensuring a balanced diet are key steps in preventing and treating constipation. If constipation persists or is accompanied by worrying symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate follow-up.
