How to help a newborn baby poop

The well-being of a newborn is one of the biggest concerns for parents. Among the first difficulties that new parents may encounter is helping their baby to poop. It's normal to feel worried when the newborn can't evacuate regularly, but there are some simple things you can do to help your little one overcome this problem.

What does it mean when a newborn doesn't poop?

Newborns generally poop several times a day, but this can vary from baby to baby. If your baby hasn't pooped in more than three days or seems to have difficulty with evacuation, it may be necessary to intervene.

• A newborn who doesn't poop can become fussy and cry more than usual.
• They might also have problems with feeding and digestion.
• In some cases, the accumulation of feces can cause pain and discomfort for the baby.

It's important to keep an eye on your baby's bowel movements and take action promptly if you notice anything abnormal.

Causes of evacuation difficulty

Evacuation difficulty can be caused by various factors, including:

• Poor feeding: if the newborn doesn't receive enough breast milk or formula suitable for their age, they may have trouble digesting and evacuating. Additionally, introducing solid foods too early can cause digestive problems.
• Dehydration: if the newborn doesn't drink enough liquids, their feces become dry and hard, making it difficult to expel them.
• Inactivity: a newborn who spends a lot of time lying down or sitting may have difficulty evacuating because the position doesn't promote movement of feces through the intestine.
• Medical problems: some illnesses can cause evacuation difficulties in newborns. For example, anal stenosis (narrowing of the anus opening) or Hirschsprung's disease (lack of nerve cells in the intestine).

It's important to always consult with a pediatrician if you notice any evacuation problems in your baby. The doctor can make an accurate assessment to identify any medical causes and advise on actions to take to improve the situation.

Newborn feeding

Newborn feeding is a fundamental aspect for their well-being and to promote regularity of bowel movements. During the first months of life, breast milk or formula are the only sources of nutrition for the newborn.

Breast milk

Breast milk is the ideal food for newborns as it contains all the necessary nutrients for their growth and development. Additionally, it contains antibodies that help protect the baby from infections. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding until six months of age for babies.

Formula milk

If breastfeeding is not possible, formula milk can be used. There are different types of formula milk available on the market, but it is important to choose the one that best suits your baby's needs. The pediatrician will be able to advise on the best solution.

Feeding frequency

The feeding frequency depends on the needs of the newborn. During the first few days of life, the baby may need to be fed every two hours or so. As the days go by, the frequency of feedings will gradually decrease.

Position during feeding

It is important to choose a comfortable and relaxed position during feeding. The newborn should be positioned in such a way as to be able to suckle milk without excessive effort. In addition, it is important to avoid interrupting the feeding before the baby has finished eating.

Introduction of solid foods

The introduction of solid foods should occur around six months of age. It is recommended to start with simple foods such as cooked and sieved fruits and vegetables. It is important to introduce one new food at a time to evaluate any allergies or intolerances.

• Note: Feeding a newborn is a delicate aspect and should always be followed under the supervision of a pediatrician.

Natural remedies to promote defecation

If your newborn is having difficulty with bowel movements, there are some natural remedies you can try to help:

• Movement: Gently moving your baby's legs can help stimulate the intestinal muscles and promote defecation. You can do this by laying your baby on their back and gently moving their legs as if they were pedaling a bicycle.
• Abdominal massage: Gently massaging your baby's abdomen in a clockwise direction can also help stimulate the intestine and promote defecation. Use your fingertips and make circular movements around your baby's belly button.
• Changes in diet: If your newborn is experiencing constipation, you may need to make some changes to their diet. Make sure they are receiving enough fluids, such as water or breast milk/formula. You may also consider adding more fiber to their diet by introducing fruit or vegetable purees.
• Warm bath: Immersing your newborn in a warm bath can help relax the intestinal muscles and promote defecation. Make sure the water is warm but not too hot and that your baby is fully immersed.

Remember, if your newborn is experiencing constipation or difficulty with bowel movements, it is important to always consult a doctor. Prescription medication or further testing may be necessary to rule out any underlying conditions.

When to contact a pediatrician

It is important to know when to consult a pediatrician for your newborn's constipation. Here are some signs that should concern you:

• Your baby has not had a bowel movement in more than three days and seems to be struggling to have one.
• Their belly is bloated and hard to the touch.
• Your baby is crying a lot and appears to have abdominal pain.
• There is blood in your baby's stool.
• Your baby is less than a month old and has not yet had a bowel movement.

In these cases, it is important to contact the pediatrician immediately for an evaluation. The doctor may recommend the use of laxatives or other specific treatments to help your baby have a bowel movement safely and effectively.

However, if your baby regularly has bowel movements but they are hard or dry, you can try some natural solutions such as gently massaging the baby's belly, offering them water or diluted fruit juices, or adding fiber-rich foods to their diet. If you have any doubts or concerns, always talk to your baby's pediatrician before trying any home remedies.

Conclusion

Helping a newborn have a bowel movement can be a challenge, but there are many solutions available to relieve constipation. Remember to always consult your baby's pediatrician if you have any doubts or concerns about their intestinal health. With a little patience and attention, you can help your baby feel better and have healthy digestion.