Smooth bowel movements are one of the signs of healthy digestion. When a baby does not defecate for days, it certainly makes parents worry. So, it's normal for moms to feel anxious when their baby doesn't poop.
A baby's digestive system changes as they grow. The problem is, many mothers are unaware of the causes of baby's loose stools.
Parents often consider a baby's lack of bowel movement as constipation. However, not all babies who don't poop are caused by constipation.
Food intake may be the cause of baby not pooping
The risk of constipation in formula-fed babies is different from breast-fed babies. If your baby is exclusively breastfed and usually has smooth bowel movements, but suddenly has difficulty defecating suddenly, this could be a sign that he is in the growth stage. At this stage the baby is trying to digest everything he consumes.
At 4 weeks, the digestive system will begin to mature and the frequency of bowel movements will decrease. This is normal, Parents. Especially if the baby is exclusively breastfed.
If your baby seems to be doing well, eating and peeing regularly as usual, there is no need to worry. He will go back to pooping when his digestive system is ready.
If your baby is used to consuming formula milk, the risk of constipation is higher. Formula milk is more difficult for the baby's intestines to digest than breast milk.
What is the average frequency of bowel movements in infants?
The frequency of bowel movements in babies depends on their food intake, as well as their age. Here is the full explanation:
Newborns aged 5-6 days will usually defecate after every feeding.
One-month-old babies defecate an average of 4 times a day.
When the baby is two months old, the frequency of his bowel movements will decrease to once a day.
Babies who are exclusively breastfed, when they are 3 months old, they may not pass stools for up to 10-14 days. At this age the baby is experiencing rapid growth and digesting all the intake that enters his body. This condition will continue until the child consumes complementary foods.
The above condition does not apply to formula-fed babies. Formula-fed babies should still be able to defecate regularly, unless they have signs of constipation.
Things to look out for
Mothers need to be vigilant and contact the doctor immediately if the baby is only a few days old and does not defecate regularly, even though he only drinks breast milk or formula milk. That way the doctor can diagnose what is causing the delayed bowel movements.
For newborns (drinking breast milk or formula) who are used to regular bowel movements and suddenly stop, and do not defecate for several days, you should contact your doctor immediately. You still need to be vigilant if the newborn has had regular bowel movements, but has not had any for days.
For older babies, if they cry or feel pain or have blood in their stool, they should be taken to the doctor immediately for proper treatment.
If you have tried to cure your little one of constipation, but they still have trouble passing stools, it could be that they have lactose intolerance. Make sure you consult a doctor before giving anything other than breast milk and formula to your baby.
Hope this helps you :*
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