How can you treat your child’s constipation?

Your child may be experiencing constipation if they pass unusually large calibre and/or hard stools, have fewer than three bowel movements per week, or experience pain when passing a stool. ¹ Your child could have a swollen abdomen or feel bloated, and some may tell you that they feel like not all of their stool has passed. ³

Besides causing discomfort, constipation can be burdensome to both children and parents and, if left untreated, can cause stool-holding behaviour, faecal impaction, and reduced quality of life. ¹ Children with constipation benefit from prompt and thorough treatment to help your child pass soft stools, ideally once a day and without difficulties. ¹

What are some of the most common treatments for constipation in children?

• Diet modifications: Providing sufficient fluids and a fibre-rich diet has been shown to help alleviate constipation by hydrating and improving stool consistency and stimulating the gut for increased bowel movement. ^1,2,4 Additionally, limiting the intake of cow’s milk may improve constipation in some children, especially if the intake of cow’s milk is excessive. ^1,2,4

• Education: Your child must understand the importance of not delaying their response to the call to pass a stool, as they can become less responsive when they feel the urge as a result. ^1,2 Assisting your child with proper positioning while passing a stool is essential, as is establishing a toileting routine with unhurried access to the toilet. ^1,2 Your child might need a break from toilet training, which can improve their constipation. ⁵

• Massage: Gently massaging your child’s abdomen may stimulate and relax the muscles that support the bladder and intestines, helping to promote bowel activity. ^4,5 Regularly stimulating the pelvic area with light exercises can also help stimulate natural bowel movement. ^4,5

If your child still finds no relief and their symptoms last for more than 2 weeks, then it may be necessary for them to go to the doctor and take medication to help them find relief. ³ You should always consult with your doctor before giving medicines to your child, as they will conduct a physical exam and gather a complete medical history of your child to help them inform their clinical decisions. ⁵ Depending on the circumstances, your child’s doctor may recommend: ⁵ 

• Over-the-counter fibre supplements or stool softeners: If your child doesn’t get a lot of fibre in their diet, adding an over-the-counter fibre supplement might help. ⁴ Check with your child’s doctor to determine the correct dose for your child’s age and weight. ⁵

• A laxative or enema: If an accumulation of faecal material creates a blockage, your child’s doctor may suggest a laxative or enema to help remove the blockage. ⁵ You should never give your child a laxative or enema without first checking with your child’s doctor. You also need to follow the instructions on the proper dose correctly. ⁵

While constipation in children isn’t usually serious, you should take your child to a doctor immediately should they have bleeding from their rectum, blood in their stool, constant pain in their abdomen, vomiting, or weight loss. ^2,3.  

Choose Dulcolax^®

Dulcolax^® is the world’s No.1 non-prescription laxative brand that works with your child’s body to target where it is needed most. ^4,5 Choose freedom from constipation with Dulco^®, a range that provides targeted, effective relief from constipation within 15-60 minutes. ^5*

* Suppositories work within 15-60 minutes, tablets within 6-12 hours, and powder for oral solution within 24-72 hours

References: 1. Leung AK, Hon KL. Paediatrics: how to manage functional constipation. Drugs Context 2021;10. 2. Mayo Clinic Staff. Constipation in children (Symptoms & causes) [online]. 2021, Sep 18 [cited 2024, Apr 29]. Retrieved from: URL: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseasesconditions/constipation-in-children/symptoms-causes/syc-20354242. 3. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Symptoms & Causes of Constipation in Children [online]. 2018, May [cited 2024, Apr 29]. Retrieved from: URL: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/healthinformation/digestive-diseases/constipation-children/symptoms-causes. 4. Wegh CA, Baaleman DF, Tabbers MM, Smidt H, Benninga MA. Nonpharmacologic treatment for children with functional constipation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pediatr 2022;240:136-49. 5. Mayo Clinic Staff. Constipation in children (Diagnosis & treatment) [online]. 2021, Sep 18 [cited 2024, Apr 29]. Retrieved from: URL: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/constipation-in-children/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354248. 6. MAT Q4 2023 value data in Nicholas Hall’s global CHC database DB6. 7. Corsetti M, Landes S, Lange R. Bisacodyl: A review of pharmacology and clinical evidence to guide use in clinical practice in patients with constipation. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2021;33(10):e14123.

[S0] DULCOLAX® 5 mg Suppositories. Each paediatric suppository contains 5 mg bisacodyl. Reg. No. E/11.5/534. [S0] DULCOLAX® Tablets. Each tablet contains 5 mg bisacodyl. Contains sugar. Reg. No. E/11.5/531. For full prescribing information refer to the professional information approved by the medicines regulatory authority. DULCOSOFT® powder for oral solution. 1 sachet contains 10 g macrogol as powder for oral solution. For full prescribing information refer to the instructions for use. 

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