Many parents often struggle when their little one suffers from tummy troubles and constipation. Baby constipation is a common issue that many parents encounter. A mum recorded that "she eased her baby’s constipation with magnesium" as part of her experience. This account provides details on the use of magnesium to address infant digestive discomfort.
One of the worst things for us moms is seeing our kids sick or struggle, and when my seven-month-old starting getting cramps and constipation, it was frustrating and difficult.
Prior to Luke* battling with constipation, we never had any issues, and I thought I had ‘escaped’ all of those common infant ailments like reflux. The most he’d ever had was a bit of nappy rash and very mild eczema, which were both easily treated and healed.
We started solids at around five months, on the recommendation of our paed. I was happy to start then, and I could have even started earlier as Luke stopped sleeping through the night, and always wanted more milk – I was breastfeeding and giving formula at that point.
Our weaning process went smoothly, and Luke liked all flavours and textures – from baby marrow and pumpkin to apples and pears. Our little boy was regular, and had at least one “dirty nappy” a day.
“I later learnt that constipation is quite common when babies start eating solids.”
But then he stopped pooing every day, and went every second day, which I didn’t think much of. Then second became third, which became fourth, and soon Luke had about one dirty nappy every four to five days. What’s more, he struggled to poo, and was quite niggly too. I also noticed that he was quite bloated on the days that he didn’t poo. I later learnt that constipation is quite common when babies start eating solids.
I tried to add more apple and pears to his meals, and fed him more water, but it didn’t seem to ease his discomfort, or make him more regular. I even gave some prune juice with meals, which didn’t help things either. I even did baby massage, something I’d learnt when he was a few weeks old, and that didn’t help either.
I felt I had tried everything I could, so I took Luke to the paed as I was feeling a bit stuck. He recommended I switch formulas (something I hadn’t even thought of) to Novalac IT, a magnesium-rich formula that has been proven to ease constipation in infants. I remember Milk of Magnesium from when I was a child (who could forget that blue bottle?) and how my mom used it for me when I was little, so it made sense that a magnesium-rich formula could work.
I was nervous to switch – I worried that maybe Luke wouldn’t like the taste, or that there would be other side effects from the change, but everything went well and our little man drank like a champ, without noticing or showing any signs of “maladjustment”. It took about seven days before I saw a change in his bowel movements, and he became more regular – from every four days, to every three, and now we can expect at least one poo nappy a day! To say I’m relieved is an understatement, and it’s good to have our guy smiling and not experiencing any discomfort any more.
*Not his real name
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. BabyYumYum reserves the right to its opinions and fully supports the notion of promotion that breast is best in line with the World Health Organisation (WHO) infant feeding guidelines. Breast milk is the best food for infants. Good maternal nutrition is essential to prepare and maintain breastfeeding. If breastfeeding is not applied, an infant formula may be used according to the advice of health professionals. Preparation and storage of any infant formula should be performed as directed on the tin in order not to pose any health hazards.
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FAQs: Baby Constipation
What is baby constipation?
Baby constipation refers to infrequent or hard bowel movements in infants. It may involve dry, pellet-like stools and discomfort during bowel movements.
What are the signs that my baby might be constipated?
Signs include straining or discomfort when passing stool, hard and dry stools, a bloated tummy, and sometimes a noticeable decrease in the usual frequency of bowel movements.
How often should my baby have a bowel movement?
This varies by age and feeding method. Newborns can have frequent loose stools, while older, formula-fed babies might have one or two bowel movements a day. Breastfed babies often have softer, more frequent stools.
What are common causes of constipation in babies?
Causes can include the introduction of solids, formula feeding differences, inadequate fluid intake, or simply normal variations in bowel habits. In some cases, it may be linked to dietary factors in older infants.
How can I help relieve my baby’s constipation at home?
For older infants, offer a little water or diluted prune or pear juice, and introduce fibre-rich pureed fruits or vegetables. For younger babies, gentle tummy massages or leg bicycling exercises can sometimes help.
Are there dietary changes that might improve constipation?
Yes. Introducing pureed prunes, pears, or high-fibre fruits and vegetables can encourage softer stools. Always introduce new foods gradually and consult your paediatrician for guidance.
Does the type of feeding affect constipation?
Yes. Breastfed babies typically have softer, more frequent stools, whereas formula-fed babies may occasionally experience firmer stools. Each baby is different, however.
When should I consult a doctor about my baby’s constipation?
Seek medical advice if your baby shows severe discomfort, if constipation persists for several days without improvement, or if symptoms like vomiting, fever, or a significantly distended abdomen occur.
What role does hydration play in preventing constipation?
Adequate fluid intake is essential for softening stools. Ensure that your baby is well-hydrated, whether they are breastfed or formula-fed, to help promote regular bowel movements.
How can I tell if my baby’s constipation is improving?
Keep a diary of your baby’s bowel movements, noting frequency and consistency. Improvement is usually indicated by softer, more regular stools and reduced discomfort.
Are there long-term concerns with constipation in babies?
Occasional constipation is common and usually not a cause for concern. However, chronic or severe constipation should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure there are no underlying issues affecting your baby’s overall health.
** Disclaimer: The above information is intended for general educational purposes and should not replace personalised medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for concerns regarding your baby’s health.
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