Your Infant and Constipation

It’s not typically common for infants to have issues with constipation; however, sometimes it happens. While many babies won’t deal with constipation they may have irregular bowel movements as their bodies naturally try to adjust to a set schedule. If you are concerned it’s always best to talk with your child’s pediatrician. Recognize the real signs of constipation in your infant.

Know the Warning Signs

For your child to truly be dealing with constipation, here are some of the warning signs:

  • Stools that are hard to pass
  • Infrequent stools
  • Excessive straining or straining more than normal
  • Swollen belly with gas
  • Painful stomach cramps
  • Stools that resemble small hard pellets, as well as stools that are too soft
  • Diarrhea-like stools

Treating Constipation in Infants

For an adult, they may simply take an over-the-counter laxative to help them go, but treating constipation in infants is different. You never want to give them an over-the-counter laxative or suppository unless otherwise told by your pediatrician. If your child is old enough to eat solid or strained foods, you may want to increase their fruits and vegetables to increase fiber intake.

If your infant is too young for strained food, give them just a couple of ounces of prune or apple juice each day to see if that helps soften the stools. If the stools are too loose, lessen the amount of juice you’re giving them.

When to See a Pediatrician

It’s important that you call your pediatrician if you are ever concerned about your infant’s health. No question is a silly one, especially when it comes to your child. You should call your pediatrician if you notice blood in your baby’s stool, if home remedies do not improve their constipation, or if your baby is fussy due to stomach cramping or pain.

If your little one is having trouble going to the bathroom, a pediatrician will be able to provide you with the answers you need, as well as tips for how to best address the issue. A pediatrician is going to be invaluable, especially for new parents, as they navigate parenthood. Talk to your pediatrician today.

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Testimonials

  • "“Very satisfied with the care my child receives with Dr. McAfee. We’ve been seeing Dr. McAfee for years. She is like a trusted friend. Highly recommend Acton Road Pediatrics.”"
    Lisa/Pleasant Grove
  • "“Nothing worse than getting a call that your child is sick. But being able to call Acton Road Pediatrics and get them seen that day makes all the difference. Dr. Breedlove was so kind and accommodating. She put me at ease and took good care of my daughter.”"
    Jasmine/Leeds
  • "“I can’t imagine anyone but Dr. Moore as our pediatrician. We recently moved to the Birmingham area and heard a lot about Acton Road Pediatrics. Happy to say that all of the recommendations were spot on. Friendly staff, efficient processes, respectful of our time. Just a great experience all the way around.”"
    Anna/Hoover
  • "“We love Dr. Frees and her entire staff. She is down to earth and has a great bedside manner. They are like an extended family. Thanks to everyone for taking such great care of my children.”"
    Heather/Birmingham
  • "“Dr. Breedlove is amazing! She is great with her patients and spends as much time as needed with you to get all questions answered and also just to get to know you. You’re not just a number to her! You can tell she truly cares about her patients! I would recommend her to anyone!”"
    Francine/Pelham
  • "“Dr. McAfee and her staff are amazing and I even switched my daughter from her pediatrician to be seen by Dr. McAfee exclusively. She takes care and remembers you every single time. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with the care of our family.”"
    Cameron/Bluff Park
  • "“I’ll keep this simple. Dr. Moore is the best pediatrician by a long shot. I recently transferred my son’s care to her. The office staff is so friendly! I always leave feeling so much better in every way. I’ll never use anyone else for my son. If you need a great pediatrician to help you with your kid’s health and wellness do yourself a favor and meet this doctor!”"
    Lydia/Mountain Brook
  • "“My twins had their first visit with Dr. Breedlove and it was a delight. She immediately made me feel very comfortable and it felt as if she had been their doctor for years. I am very happy to have found a pediatrician that I feel I can trust with the care of my children.”"
    Monica/Hoover
  • "“Great experience! My daughter got sick at school and I was able to make a same day appointment with Acton Road Pediatrics and got in right away. The front desk staff and the medical assistant were very nice and helpful. Dr. Frees was great, gave realistic expectations and timelines. I’m so glad that we chose Dr. Frees as our pediatrician.”"
    Eleanor/Chelsea
  • "“Dr. McAfee is a great doctor! She’s very understanding and listens to your concerns. She takes time with my son to help him with his health issues! I highly recommend her to anyone looking for a pediatrician.”"
    Julie/Bessemer
  • "“As a first time parent I was really nervous. The staff and Dr. Breedlove were all very friendly and helpful. I especially loved how Dr. Breedlove really took her time to explain everything with us. The visit was great and the doctor’s demeanor has really put my husband and me at ease. I’ve told my New Mom group all about Acton Road Pediatrics!!”"
    Payton/Gardendale
  • ""Great medical office, wonderful, warm experience from start to finish. Appreciate Dr. Moore taking time to go over the diagnosis clearly and treatment options. Many thanks to everyone at Acton Road Pediatrics.""
    Angela/Birmingham
  • "“Dr. Frees is incredible. Not only has she taken great care of my children, but also she is lovely to speak with at every appointment. It’s rare to find a doctor that combines such personal touches and care for a patient as a person with outstanding quality of medical care. I highly recommend Dr. Frees!”"
    Janet/Vestavia