Baby is constipated! How can I help him?

Constipation is rare in infants who are exclusively breastfed. You can consult your doctor if you are worried. If he/she is showing other symptoms such as vomiting or a swollen tummy, it could then indicate a more serious condition and should seek medical attention. Signs of constipation in infants include: - Stools that are hard and dry or have blood in them - Baby showing persistent discomfort when moving his/her bowels Here are some simple suggestions you can try to help ease constipation: - If low fiber content could be the cause, you can include pureed fruits (pears or prunes) or vegetables to supplement the cereal if your baby has started solids - Giving your baby more fluid (add pear or prune juice to her milk if you have started your baby on solids) - Wiggle your baby's legs in a gentle pedaling motion while he/she is lying on his/her back. - Gently but firmly massage your baby’s belly (below the navel). If you feel a firm area, keep a steady pressure there for a few moments. For more information on constipation: http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-5-month-old-week-2_1495727.bc#articlesection3

Infant constipation often begins when a baby starts eating solid foods. You may want to consider simple dietary changes: - Water or fruit juice. Offer your baby a small amount of water or a daily serving of 100 percent apple, prune or pear juice in addition to usual feedings. These juices contain sorbitol, a sweetener that acts like a laxative. Start with 2 to 4 ounces (about 60 to 120 milliliters), and experiment to determine whether your baby needs more or less. - Baby food. If your baby is eating solid foods, try pureed peas or prunes, which contain more fiber than other fruits and vegetables. Offer whole wheat, barley or multigrain cereals, which contain more fiber than rice cereal.

If you are breastfeeding, eat a little yogurt or prunes so that it can be passed to baby to aid them in their constipation but if baby is showing signs that he is unwell and in pain, it will be better to bring him to the doctor's for repository.

If you're breastfeeding, eat more fruits and liquids. That might help in your baby's digestion.

Eat more fruits if you are breastfeeding . Also use gripe water for the baby

thanks