How do I know if my baby is constipated?

Signs of baby constipation include hard, pellet-like stools, straining with a red face during bowel movements, blood on stool from anal fissures, bloated firm belly, crying during bowel movements, and refusing to eat.

How can I relieve my baby's constipation at home?

Effective home remedies include tummy massage in clockwise circles, bicycle legs exercise, warm baths followed by tummy massage, increasing fluids, and for babies on solids adding fiber-rich foods like prunes, pears, and sweet potatoes.

How often should a baby have a bowel movement?

Breastfed babies can go from several times a day to once every 7 days and still be normal. Formula-fed babies typically go 1-2 times per day. The consistency matters more than frequency.

When should I see a doctor for baby constipation?

See a doctor if constipation occurs before 1 month of age, there's significant blood in stool, constipation lasts more than 2 weeks, baby has vomiting or fever, severely distended abdomen, or poor weight gain.

Health December 11, 2024 6 min read

Baby Constipation: Signs, Causes & Relief

Has your baby not had a bowel movement in days, or do they seem to struggle when trying to go? Baby constipation is more common than you might think, but with the right approach, it's usually easy to resolve at home.

Normal Bowel Patterns by Age

Every baby is different when it comes to bowel movements. What matters most is the consistency of the stool, not how often your baby goes.

Breastfed babies: Anywhere from several times a day to once every 7 days is normal
Formula-fed babies: Usually 1-2 times per day
After starting solids: Changes in frequency and consistency are common

Signs of Constipation

Look for these warning signs that your baby may be constipated:

Hard, pellet-like stools (like rabbit droppings)
Face turning red and straining hard during bowel movements
Small amounts of blood on the stool (from anal fissures)
Bloated, firm belly that seems uncomfortable
Crying or fussiness during bowel movements
Refusing to eat or decreased appetite

Causes of Constipation by Age

Newborn to 6 Months

Formula issues: The formula may not suit your baby, or it may be mixed too thick
Dehydration: Especially during hot weather
Immature digestive system: The gut is still developing

6 Months and Older (After Starting Solids)

Introduction of solid foods: The digestive system needs time to adjust
Low fiber intake: Too many low-fiber foods like rice cereal and potatoes
Decreased fluid intake: Less breast milk or formula as solids increase

Home Remedies for Baby Constipation

1. Tummy Massage

One of the most effective immediate remedies:

Gently massage below the belly button in a clockwise direction
Try the "I Love U" massage: trace an "I" down the left side, an "L" from right to left then down, and a "U" shape across the lower abdomen
Do this 2-3 times daily, at least 30 minutes after feeding
Use baby-safe massage oil for smoother movements

2. Bicycle Legs Exercise

Lay your baby on their back and gently move their legs in a cycling motion
Gently press both knees toward the belly and hold for a few seconds
This stimulates the intestines and helps move things along

3. Warm Bath

Give your baby a warm bath for 10-15 minutes
The warmth relaxes abdominal muscles and can ease bowel movements
Follow up with a tummy massage right after for best results

4. Increase Fluids

Under 6 months: Ensure adequate breast milk or formula intake
6 months and older: Offer small amounts of water between feedings
Prune juice or pear juice (1-2 oz) can help for babies 6 months and older

5. Dietary Adjustments (For Babies on Solids)

Add more fiber-rich foods to your baby's diet:

Helpful foods: Prunes, pears, peaches, sweet potatoes, broccoli, oatmeal
Foods to limit: Ripe bananas, white rice cereal, excess dairy
Introduce new foods gradually to avoid overwhelming the digestive system

Tips for Formula-Fed Babies

Double-check that you're measuring formula correctly (not too concentrated)
Consider switching to a different formula brand if constipation persists
Ensure formula is at the right temperature
Burp your baby thoroughly after each feeding
Ask your pediatrician about formulas designed for sensitive tummies

When to See a Doctor

Contact your pediatrician if your baby experiences:

Constipation before 1 month of age
Significant blood in the stool
Constipation lasting more than 2 weeks
Vomiting or fever along with constipation
Severely distended abdomen
Poor weight gain or weight loss
Constipation symptoms from birth (could indicate an underlying condition)

What NOT to Do

Never use enemas or suppositories without consulting your doctor first
Avoid frequent rectal stimulation (with cotton swabs or thermometers) as this can create dependency
Never give honey to babies under 12 months (botulism risk)
Don't use adult laxatives - they're not safe for infants
Avoid fruit juices before 6 months of age

Prevention Tips

Maintain regular feeding schedules
Ensure adequate fluid intake throughout the day
Include a variety of fiber-rich foods once solids are introduced
Make daily tummy massage part of your routine
Encourage movement through tummy time and active play

Final Thoughts

Most cases of baby constipation can be resolved with simple lifestyle adjustments at home. Consistent massage, proper hydration, and the right dietary choices usually do the trick. However, if constipation persists for more than 2 weeks or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to consult your pediatrician.