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Constipation
At home
Normal varies a lot: some babies poop several times a day and others, especially breastfed babies, every few days. Constipation means hard, dry or pellet-like poop, or poop that hurts, not just pooping less often.
| Age | What may help |
|---|---|
| 1 to 6 months | Ask the pediatrician. They may suggest a small amount of 100% prune, pear or apple juice. |
| 6 to 12 months (eating solids) | Purées of prunes, pears, peaches or peas; oat or barley cereal; a little water with meals. |
| 1 to 4 years | Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and water. No more than 2 to 3 cups (16 to 24 oz) of milk a day. Have the child sit on the toilet after meals. |
What to do
- Move the baby's legs in a bicycle motion and gently massage the belly.
- A warm bath can help the baby relax.
- Check that formula is mixed exactly as the can says.
What not to do
- Don't give laxatives, suppositories, enemas, mineral oil or teas unless the pediatrician says so.
- Don't insert objects (thermometer, cotton swabs) to stimulate a bowel movement unless the pediatrician says so.
- Don't switch formula without asking.
- Don't give honey before 12 months.
