Illnesses

Constipation

The frequency of bowel movements varies widely in infants and children. Some children move their bowels several times a day while others, such as nursing infants, may move their bowels once or twice a week. There is no rule about what is normal. Each child develops his or her own pattern. Do not be alarmed if your child's pattern changes some, but if your child's stools become hard and painful to pass, then constipation may be the problem.

Symptoms
Pain during a bowel movement and hard stools are the primary symptoms.

What you should do

• If your child is an infant, make sure you're adding the correct amount of water to the baby formula. Give the baby an additional two ounces of water before feeding.
• For babies older than six months, try small amounts of prune juice. Begin with a teaspoon before feeding and increase to two ounces slowly over time.
• Encourage your child to drink more fluids, particularly fruit juices and water. Mixing prune juice with another juice, such as apple or cranberry juice, may make it more appealing to your child.
• Increase high fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables and grains in his or her diet.
• A lubricating softener, such as mineral oil, may be helpful for older children. Many pediatricians recommend 1 tablespoon for each year of age, given once a day. For example, if you have a five-year old, you might give him or her five tablespoons of mineral oil per day. Mineral oil is more appealing to some children when mixed with juice or ice cream. Always consult with your doctor before using mineral oil.
• Encourage active play and exercise.
• Provide a regular toilet time for toilet-trained children. Fifteen minutes after meals works well for many children. Try to make this time quiet and nonstressful. Provide a favorite book or music to occupy the child and praise him or her if successful, but don't punish the child if they're not able to have a bowel movement.
• Constipation can be frustrating for you and your child. Try to be patient. It will usually take several weeks for your child to resume regular, pain-free bowel movements.
• Don't give your child any laxative medications without your pediatrician's advice.

When to call the doctor

• Call your doctor if your child has severe pain or bloody stools.
• Report repeated "leaking" or soiling of undergarments in a toilet-trained child or consistently hard stools to your pediatrician.

Reviewed: Robert LaCamera, MD, September 1999
Last revised: May 10, 2007 (dh)

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All information is intended for your general knowledge and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen.