Constipation in babies is one of the most common causes of concern for parents: the baby strains, cries, has a distended tummy… and stools are delayed or hard. The good news is that in most cases, the situation can be improved with simple, age-appropriate measures (breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, introducing solids). In this guide, you will learn how to recognize true constipation , what to do immediately at home, and most importantly, when to consult a doctor to avoid overlooking a medical problem.

Constipation in babies: definition (and what is “normal”)

Constipation isn't just about "not having a bowel movement." In babies, it's mainly about:

• Hard , dry stools that are difficult to pass
• Pain during emission (crying, tension)
• Sometimes an anal fissure (small wound) with a trickle of red blood

Stool frequency: highly variable depending on diet

• Breastfed baby : may have several bowel movements per day… or one bowel movement every few days without this being abnormal if it remains soft and painless.
• Bottle-fed baby : often more regular bowel movements, sometimes thicker stools.

The right approach: judge the consistency and the pain , rather than the “number of days”.

Signs that confirm baby constipation

A constipated baby often presents with a combination of:

• Hard stools (small pellet-like or “plug-like”)
• Significant exertion, red face, tears during bowel movements
• Bloated stomach, discomfort
• Decreased appetite (due to discomfort), irritability
• Sometimes traces of red blood (often linked to a fissure, but should be monitored)

Constipation vs. dyschezia in infants (not to be confused)

In some infants, straining/crying is observed before passing a soft : this indicates immaturity in coordination (effort + relaxation of the sphincter), not constipation. In this case, aggressive "anti-constipation" measures (repeated suppositories) should be avoided.

Common causes of constipation in babies (by age)

0 to 6 months: typical causes

• Insufficient intake (less effective breastfeeding, insufficient bottle feedings) → harder stools
• Change of milk or incorrect bottle preparation (dosage)
• Naturally slower digestion in some babies

6 to 12 months: period of risk (diversification)

• Introducing solid foods (flour, rice, carrots, bananas) without enough water/fiber
• Less milk than before, insufficient hydration
• Lifestyle (travel, illness, fever → dehydration)

After 1 year: “behavioral” factors

• Retention (fear of pain after a fissure)
• Changes in routine, potty training

What to do immediately: a home protocol (effective and safe)

Objective: to soften stools and aid evacuation without irritating the rectum .

Step 1: Mechanical movements (3–4 times/day)

• Pedaling motion with the legs
• Gentle abdominal massage (clockwise)

These actions are good habits to help with baby's digestion .

Step 2: Appropriate hydration (according to age)

• Before 6 months : prioritize milk (breast milk or formula). Do not change the water/bottle without medical advice; especially check the preparation (measuring devices, volume).
• After 6 months : offer water regularly in addition to meals (small amounts, often).

Step 3: Dietary adjustments (if introducing solids)

Foods that are often helpful (due to the "transit" effect):

• Prune , pear, apricot, peach (compotes in moderation)
• Vegetables rich in fiber: peas, spinach (depending on tolerance)
• Less constipating cereals (avoid a "rice-only" diet during periods of constipation)

To be limited temporarily if constipation is severe:

• Rice, large quantities of carrots, unripe bananas (which can cause constipation in some people)

Step 4: Routine and position

• Calm the situation (stress = contractions, baby is holding back)
• After meals, a favorable time (gastro-colic reflex)
• "Bending" layer: slightly bringing your knees up can help (without forcing it)

What you should avoid (common mistakes)

• Repeated rectal thermometer/stimulation : can cause irritation, maintain a dependence on the stimulus.
• Suppositories for repeated self-medication: useful sometimes, but not as a “routine” solution.
• Changing milk in quick succession (without a strategy): risks further disrupting digestion.
• Giving “remedies” not appropriate for the age (honey before 1 year, adult laxatives, essential oils).

When to consult a doctor (and when it's urgent)

Consultation is recommended if…

• Constipation that persists despite simple measures
• Significant pain, major discomfort
• Blood in the stool (even if a fissure is likely)
• Baby eating less, seems lethargic, or has recurring constipation

Emergency / immediate medical attention if warning signs are present

• Vomiting , fever, general malaise
• Very distended abdomen, significant pain, inconsolable baby
• Absence of stools + gas, suspicion of occlusion
• In newborns: specific context (delayed passage of meconium, etc.)

Possible medical treatments (what the doctor may suggest)

Depending on age, severity, and examination, a professional may recommend:

• An osmotic softener/laxative (e.g., macrogol) with pediatric dosage
• Managing the fissure (to break the cycle of pain → retention)
• An investigation into the underlying cause is necessary if constipation is severe/chronic (rare, but should be ruled out)

Key point: in infants, the strategy is not to “empty” at all costs, but to make the emission painless and regular.

Preventing relapses: a simple 7-day plan

1. Regular hydration (adapted to age)
2. 1–2 “transitional” foods per day if introducing solid foods (pear/prune in small portions)
3. Rebalance your starch intake (reduce the amount of rice if there is a blockage)
4. Daily massage and pedaling
5. Monitor the pain: treat a fissure quickly (medical advice)
6. Do not make frequent changes to milk without a plan
7. Follow-up: note frequency/consistency (useful for the pediatrician)

FAQ

Constipated baby: what to do immediately?

Massage the belly and use "pedaling" movements, check intake (milk/water according to age), and adapt the diet if baby is diversified (pear/prune, limit all-rice).

How long can a baby go without a bowel movement?

It depends mainly on the consistency : a breastfed baby can space out bowel movements if they remain soft . However, if the stools are hard, painful, or associated with warning signs, medical advice should be sought.

When to consult a doctor for baby constipation?

Consult a doctor if constipation persists, if baby is in a lot of pain, if there is blood, vomiting, fever, a very distended belly, or a change in general condition.

Glycerin suppositories for babies: a good idea?

They can be offered occasionally depending on age and circumstances, but they should not become a repeated habit. In cases of recurrent constipation, a comprehensive approach and medical advice are best.

What foods should I give to a constipated baby (weaning)?

Pears , prunes , apricots (compotes), certain fiber-rich vegetables, and plenty of water. Temporarily limit foods that often cause constipation (excessive rice, carrots, unripe bananas) if you notice a worsening of symptoms.

Conclusion

Infant constipation is most often managed with a gradual approach: recognizing true constipation (hard stools + pain), applying simple techniques (massage, pedaling), optimizing hydration and nutrition according to age, and avoiding repeated use of irritating solutions. If warning signs appear or if the problem persists, a consultation will help rule out a rare cause and establish a safe treatment plan.