Constipation is not common in newborns. Breastfed babies usually pass soft stools three or four times a day. Between a baby who is breastfed and a baby who is formula-fed, the latter is more prone to constipation.
The colostrum in breastmilk acts as a laxative, which helps soften the baby’s stools. Formula-fed babies may be constipated for reasons like lack of fluid intake or too much solid.
Some breastfed babies may not pass stools frequently though. The nutrients in the breastmilk may have been used up by the body, which is why no waste product is formed.
For a sudden change in bowel movement routine, it is best to check for other factors though.
Feel the baby’s abdomen, is it hard? How about the child’s hydration status? Is the child irritable or cries without any apparent reason?
If the newborn passes hard stools with fresh bright red blood, anal fissures may be suspected.
Anal fissures refer to tears in the anal canal or around the anus. This condition affects people of any age, but is more common in infants.
Since this can cause mild to severe pain, itching, and irritation, a newborn who has fissures can be irritable and can cry a lot.
Tears in the anus and in the anal canal can result from trauma. In newborns, the possible causes of anal fissures include constipation, passing of large stools, and colorectal diseases like Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
Vigorous wiping or accidental scratching of the baby’s anus during diaper change may also cause anal injury.
Treatment is focused on preventing constipation. So, mothers are advised to continue breastfeeding their newborn per demand. This will ensure that their baby is well-hydrated.
Breastfeeding mothers should also watch what they eat because the food they take in has a direct effect on the health of their babies. They should take in more fiber-rich foods like whole grains, wheat bran, leafy green vegetables, prunes, and beans.
Constipation may also be caused by milk-protein allergy. In cases like this, mothers are advised to remove dairy products in their diet. They can still get the calcium and protein they need from soya-based products.
Since a baby’s skin is fragile, extra care is also needed during diaper change. Make sure your nails are well-kept to avoid injuring your baby’s skin.
Change your baby’s diaper frequently to avoid skin irritation, and make sure that anal area is kept dry.
It is best to use soft fabrics when wiping your child’s anus. Avoid using cloth with rough materials and alcohol-based wipes. Alcohol-based wipes can only make the skin dry and more susceptible to injuries.
You can also apply Zinc Oxide cream and Petroleum Jelly to your baby’s anus for lubrication. This will help make moving bowel less painful.
A pediatrician may also prescribe topical ointments to soothe pain. Since newborns usually passes stools immediately after feeding, it is best to apply ointment before feeding.
It is also important to stay patient. Anal fissures do not heal overnight. Healing rate varies per individual.
This condition can be short-lived in infants. However, it is still best to consult a pediatrician for proper treatment.
Please Share This Article - Thanks 🙂
