When a newborn experiences constipation and does not defecate frequently, it might cause some parents concern. Unlike adult bowel habits, babies do not yet have one. Changes in nutrition, such as switching from breast milk to formula, switching brands of formula, or consuming less formula than usual, can affect babies' bowel patterns.

However, remaining vigilant does not truly cause any harm. Certain cases of constipation in infants may be related to medical conditions that require an evaluation and examination by a medical professional.

What are the most common causes of constipation in babies?

Essentially, every baby has special characteristics. A single infant and another individual are different even in terms of their waste elimination behaviors. The frequency of bowel movements in healthy infants might also vary. Certain newborns may experience defecation following each feeding, but others may only defecate every few days. Therefore, it is crucial to closely observe and monitor your infant's specific bowel movements.

Constipation in infants can be related to various factors, such as:

Dietary changes

A primary factor contributing to constipation in infants is a dietary change. This includes a transition from consuming formula to breast milk or vice versa, as well as a modification in the consistency of the solid meals provided to the infant.

Inadequate hydration

Babies who do not drink enough liquid, both breast milk and formula milk, (or water on those who have eaten solid foods) are at risk of constipation. Fluids help soften feces and facilitate digestion so that babies can defecate regularly.

Inadequate dietary fiber

When a baby starts consuming solid foods, a lack of fiber can cause constipation. Fiber helps increase gut movement and softenage to make it easier to remove.

Formula milk consumption

Constipation is more prevalent among infants who are given formula milk compared to those who are breastfed. This phenomenon occurs due to the relatively higher digestive resistance of infants to formula milk.

Medical conditions that result in infant constipation

In extremely rare cases, certain medical problems might manifest as constipation in infants, such as:

• Disruptions to the digestion and feces processes result from a disruption in the nerves that control intestinal function.
• Problems with the central nervous system or spinal cord can impact bowel function and lead to constipation
• Babies with thyroid deficiencies may experience metabolic and gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation, difficulty passing gas, yellowing of the skin and eyes, brittle hair, and weakened muscles.
• Other metabolic issues that affect intestinal function can be the cause of constipation.

When should a baby be examined for constipation?

Constipation may be normal for newborns. There are several situations where you should take your baby to a doctor for constipation, including:

• Excessive crying indicates the baby is uncomfortable or in pain when defecating.
• The baby had previously experienced constipation issues, which doctors treated, but the symptoms kept returning.
• Constipation has persisted since birth, and the infant has failed to defecate within the first two days of life.
• Baby has ribbon-thin bowel motions.
• When a newborn's stool contains red blood cells
• Babies are prone to several kinds of symptoms, including constipation, vomiting, fever, and lethargy.

If you observe the above indications or are worried about your baby's bowel movements, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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