Baby Constipation Solutions: What to Do When Baby Hasn't Pooped
My baby hasn't pooped in days! This is one of the most common worries for new parents. This guide covers constipation symptoms, causes, age-specific solutions, and when to see a doctor.
What Is Baby Constipation?
The definition of constipation focuses on stool consistency more than frequency:
Constipation = Hard, dry stools that are difficult to pass
NOT Constipation
- Breastfed baby not pooping for days but passing soft stools
- Infrequent bowel movements without discomfort
- Soft, normal-colored stools
Normal Bowel Movement Frequency
Normal frequency by age:
| Age | Breastfed | Formula-fed |
|---|---|---|
| 0-1 month | 3-10/day | 1-4/day |
| 1-2 months | 2-5/day | 1-2/day |
| 2-4 months | 1-2/day to every 2-3 days | 1-2/day |
| 4+ months | 1/day to every 3-4 days | 1/day |
| After solids | 1-2/day | 1-2/day |
Note: Breastfed babies can go up to 7-10 days without pooping and still be normal. Breast milk is almost completely absorbed.
Signs of Baby Constipation
Signs to watch for:
Stool Appearance
- Hard, dry pellet-like stools
- Small, hard pebbles
- Blood in stool (from anal fissures)
Behavioral Changes
- Face turns red while straining
- Crying and arching back
- Doesn't like tummy being touched
- Eating less than usual
- Distended belly
Bowel Patterns
- Much longer intervals than usual
- Still uncomfortable after passing stool
Causes of Baby Constipation
Feeding-Related
- Formula too concentrated: Higher powder-to-water ratio causes constipation
- Formula change: Adjusting to new formula
- Dehydration: Especially in hot weather or during fever
- Insufficient breast milk: Less stool production when not eating enough
Solid Food-Related
- Lack of fiber: Rice cereal-only early solids
- Iron supplements: Iron can cause constipation
- Adapting to new foods: Digestive system adjusting
Other Causes
- Lack of movement: Lying down too much
- Insufficient water intake: Not drinking enough after starting solids
- Medical conditions: Rarely, hypothyroidism or Hirschsprung's disease
Age-Specific Solutions
Newborn-6 months (Before Solids)
Breastfed Babies
- Increase feeding frequency (hydration)
- Tummy massage: I-L-U technique
- Bicycle leg exercises
- Warm bath
Formula-fed Babies
- Check formula concentration
- Consider formula change (after consulting doctor)
- Extra water (30-60ml boiled water)
- Massage and exercise
6-12 months (After Starting Solids)
1. Add high-fiber foods
- Prunes, pears, apricots (P-fruits)
- Peas, broccoli
- Sweet potato, spinach
2. Increase fluid intake
- Water: 60-120ml/day
- Prune juice: 30-60ml (after doctor consult)
3. Adjust iron supplements
- Consult doctor about dosage
12+ months
1. High-fiber foods
- Whole grain bread, oatmeal
- Fruits: kiwi, oranges, strawberries
- Vegetables: carrots, spinach, broccoli
2. Adequate fluids
- Water: 240-480ml/day
- Limit milk to 480ml/day
3. Regular meals and bowel habits
Tummy Massage Technique (I-L-U)
You'll need: Baby oil or lotion
Step-by-Step
1. I massage (left lower abdomen)
- Stroke downward from left ribs to pubic area
- Repeat 10 times
2. L massage (upper → left lower abdomen)
- Right to left, then downward
- Upside-down L shape
- Repeat 10 times
3. U massage (entire abdomen)
- Start at right lower abdomen
- Up → across → down
- Upside-down U shape
- Repeat 10 times
Note: Avoid right after feeding. Wait 30 minutes after feeding.
Bicycle Leg Exercise
Effective for stimulating bowel movement:
- Lay baby on back, hold both legs
- Gently move legs in pedaling motion
- Alternate left-right for 3-5 minutes
- Repeat 2-3 times daily
When to See a Doctor
See a pediatrician immediately if:
Emergency Signs
- Large amount of blood in stool
- Vomiting with constipation
- Constipation lasting 2+ weeks
- Weight loss or failure to thrive
Needs Medical Attention
- Constipation in baby under 1 month old
- Recurring constipation
- Severely distended belly
- Extreme fussiness or refusing to eat
- Accompanied by fever
Prevention Tips
Preventing constipation daily:
During Formula Feeding
- Maintain correct formula concentration
- Ensure adequate feeding amounts
- Make tummy massage routine
During Solid Foods
- Balance fiber and fluids
- Offer variety of vegetables and fruits
- Consult doctor before iron supplements
All Ages
- Regular meal times
- Adequate physical activity
- Don't ignore bowel signals
What to Avoid
Factors that worsen constipation:
- Honey: Forbidden for babies under 12 months (botulism risk)
- Too many ripe bananas: Can worsen constipation
- Excessive dairy: Too much milk
- White rice, white bread: Refined carbohydrates
- Home remedies: No suppositories or medications without doctor's advice
Track Bowel Movements with BebeSnap
The first step to solving constipation is accurate tracking. With BebeSnap:
- Record bowel movement time, color, consistency
- AI analyzes stool photos for abnormalities
- Track patterns for early constipation detection
- Present records at doctor visits
👉 Learn more about AI Stool Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My breastfed baby hasn't pooped in 5 days. Is it constipation?
Breastfed babies can go up to 7-10 days without pooping and be normal—breast milk is almost completely absorbed. If stools are soft when they do go, don't worry.
Q: Will changing formula help with constipation?
It might help, but always consult your pediatrician first. Sudden changes can backfire.
Q: When can I give prune juice?
Generally after 4-6 months, starting with small amounts (30ml) alongside solids. Always consult your doctor first.
Q: Is it okay to use glycerin suppositories?
Never use suppositories without a pediatrician's guidance. Improper use can harm the intestines.
References
Manage Easier with BebeSnap
AI stool analysis, feeding & sleep tracking, health reports—all in one app.
You Might Also Like
Baby Cold Symptoms & Treatment: Complete Guide from Newborn to 12 Months
When your baby starts showing cold symptoms like runny nose and coughing, it's natural to worry. Understanding baby cold symptoms, home care methods, and when to seek medical attention helps you respond calmly and effectively.
Baby Constipation Massage Techniques | Complete Relief Guide
Baby constipation is a common concern for many parents. Infant constipation often occurs during transitions from breast milk to formula or when starting solid foods. This guide covers effective baby constipation massage techniques and other relief methods.
5 Signs of Baby Constipation and Safe Solutions
"My baby hasn't pooped in 3 days." Sound familiar? But not pooping doesn't always mean constipation. Here are 5 signs of real baby constipation and safe ways to help.