Until one has children, they are careful to ensure that bathroom-related events do not become a topic of public discussion. However, when one becomes a parent, issues of poop and pee suddenly become important topics that can be discussed anywhere, anytime, and with almost anyone. (Provided, of course, that the other party allows it.)

 

Baby Poop Secrets: What Can You Learn from Your Baby's Stool?

The biggest 'problem' with babies is that they can only signal their discomfort by crying, and it is the parents' job to find the source of the problem based on small signs. Naturally, every mother wants the best for her child, and food allergies - among which casein and lactose intolerance are the most common in infancy - digestive difficulties, and constipation-related pain make everyday life difficult for the whole family.

In addition, the baby's stool, its consistency, color, and frequency provide information about the child's general health condition. The feedback given by the stool about the baby's general well-being is extremely important for parents. 

Ideally, the frequency of stool in the weeks following birth is 3-5 times a day, and thereafter once a day. If the baby does not have a bowel movement for 4-6 days, it is advisable to take steps depending on the child's well-being. If the baby seems well, we can wait up to a week before consulting a pediatrician, but if the baby is suffering, seek the advice of a health visitor or pediatrician as soon as possible! (It is also important to know that the stool of breastfed and formula-fed babies can show significant differences.)
 

- If possible, avoid using a thermometer or wind pipe method, as it can lead to habituation and worsen the situation in the long run.

- Only try medicinal methods as a last resort, on the recommendation of a pediatrician.

- For breastfed babies, consume foods known for their laxative effects, such as prunes or prune juice.

- For formula-fed babies, seek the advice of a pediatrician, as there are laxative-effect baby waters from which formula can also be prepared for the baby. However, it is advisable to decide on this with the doctor's approval.

 

 

Possible Causes of Constipation in Babies

The most common cause of constipation in babies is stress during infancy and early childhood, temporary setbacks in the potty training process, and at a younger age, the transition to a more varied diet, as well as low fiber or fluid intake.

With proper nutrition, the fluid requirement for an average weight 6-month-old baby is 1-2 dl, 3-4 dl at 9 months, and 6-8 dl of water at 11 months. Children aged 1-3 years should drink 1.2-1.5 liters of water daily! If your baby drinks less than this, be sure to increase fluid intake, which should preferably be clean, carbonated, sugar-free, and flavorless water.

 

When is Digestive Assistance Needed?

If the baby hasn't had a bowel movement for days, even if they feel well, you can proactively use some digestion-easing foods. But if 

- the child's stool is hard and very lumpy;

- the little one cries when pooping;

- fresh blood is visible in the baby's stool (which can be a consequence of anal fissures);

- the child's belly feels hard to the touch, and mild pressure causes pain visible on the child's face, or

- the child's appetite decreases, it's time to take action!

 

Tips Against Baby Constipation

If the child is constipated, the first and most important step is to immediately stop consuming foods that promote constipation. Potatoes, bananas, cheese, rice flakes, or pasta often cause similar complaints, so it's advisable to avoid them for a few days. 

Instead, give the child foods that naturally act as laxatives to aid digestion! Try plums and dried plums, pears, pumpkins, peaches, or peas, as they can work wonders. Additionally, if you haven't introduced avocado or sweet potatoes yet, now is the time.

 

Some Surefire Flavor Combinations Against Baby Constipation:

- fennel-peach-pea;

- pear-date;

- pear-plum;

- pumpkin-yogurt-plum;

- pear-blueberry.

If the baby is over nine months old, you can sneak some finely ground flaxseed into the purees or snacks they consume. Additionally, increase the amount of water the child drinks, offering it more frequently, both in the morning and evening!

 

Tummy Exercises: Yes or No?

Baby exercises and baby massage can help support the child's bowel function, but excessive force or improperly performed exercises can do more harm than good. Be cautious, or seek advice from a health visitor, physiotherapist, or even a baby masseur.