A common malady

Constipation is a common concern among parents. This is especially more common during the early years of a child’s life. While it is definitely a cause of worry the good news is that it is usually manageable with the right understanding and care. Constipation typically means infrequent bowel movements, hard stools or difficulty passing stools. For newborns and young children, it is vital to recognise the signs early and address the underlying causes. This goes a long way to ensure comfort and healthy digestion in afflicted children.

What causes constipation in newborns and young children?

There are multiple reasons for the occurrence of constipation in newborns and young children. Some of them are:

• Dietary changes: This is one of the primary causes. In newborns, constipation can occur when switching from breast milk to formula, as the digestive system adjusts to new nutrients. For older infants and toddlers, introducing solid foods such as low-fibre options like rice cereal, bananas and processed snacks can lead to harder stools.
• Inadequate fluid intake: This is a common problem - young children are likely to not drink enough water or milk throughout the day, making the stools dry and difficult to pass. Dehydration due to fever or illness can also worsen the situation.
• Low fibre intake: Fibre is a crucial ingredient that plays a key role in maintaining soft, healthy stools. Children who consume more refined foods and fewer fruits, vegetables or whole grains are more likely to struggle with constipation.
• Withholding stool: Some toddlers intentionally hold back bowel movements due to fear of pain, discomfort, or reluctance to use the toilet outside their home. Toilet training periods can also trigger withholding behaviour.
• Medical conditions (less common): Issues such as hypothyroidism, certain metabolic disorders, or anatomical abnormalities can lead to constipation. While rare, these should be considered if symptoms are persistent or severe.

Symptoms to keep an eye out for

There are certain symptoms that sound the alarm bell in advance. Parents may notice signs like hard pebble-like stools, straining, abdominal discomfort, decreased appetite or irritability. In newborns, infrequent bowel movements may be normal depending on feeding patterns, but persistent difficulty passing stool needs medical attention.

Effective Remedies and Treatments

• Adjusting the diet: For infants on formula, switching to a different formula under the guidance of a healthcare provider may help. For older babies and children, introducing fibre-rich foods such as prunes, pears, apples, peas and whole grains can make stools softer and easier to pass.
• Increasing fluid intake: Ensuring the child drinks enough water throughout the day helps keep stools soft. Breast-fed babies usually get adequate hydration from breast milk, but toddlers often need reminders.
• Gentle tummy massage and movement: For newborns, massaging the abdomen in circular motions or gently moving the legs in a bicycling motion can stimulate bowel activity. Older children benefit from regular physical play, which supports healthy digestion.
• Establishing a toilet routine: Encouraging children to sit on the toilet after meals can help build a healthy habit. Make the experience positive by providing a comfortable footrest and offering reassurance.
• Medications when needed: If home remedies don’t help, paediatricians may recommend stool softeners or mild laxatives suitable for children.

When to Seek Help

Parents should consult a doctor if constipation lasts more than a few days, if there is blood in the stool, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, or poor weight gain.

With timely care, simple lifestyle adjustments, and guidance from a healthcare professional, constipation in newborns and young children can be effectively managed, ensuring they stay comfortable, healthy, and happy.