kiddi
One of the most common concerns that I hear from new mum’s is their baby’s poo. As a mum, ‘poo’ is no longer a ‘dirty’ word, but becomes something that you look at and think about daily. Your baby’s poo will tell you a lot about the health of your little one, so it’s important to know what’s normal.
Check out these hints:
- In breastfed babies, constipation is rare. A breastfed baby will poo normally 3 times per day compared to 2 times per day for a formula-fed baby. Over 4 weeks of age it is normal for a baby not to poo every day. As children age it falls to about 1 per day at 3 years of age.
- Formula will often give your baby’s poo a green tinge – don’t be alarmed, this is normal!
- If your baby is straining to open his/her bowels but the poo is soft, they are not constipated. This is normal. In fact, making a ‘poo face’ can be a helpful indictor that it’s time for a nappy change!
- Constipation is defined as difficulty, delay or pain on defecation with dry hard stools which often look like a ‘sausage’ or ‘rabbit droppings’ combined with foul smelling wind. It is often accompanied by an infrequent passage of less than three complete stools per week.
- If your baby is formula-fed, ensure that you are making the formula according to the directions on the pack. Too little fluid can result in dehydration which can cause constipation.
- It is important to note that constipation can also be a symptom of more serious underlying causes so if symptoms persist it is best to see the healthcare professional. More serious conditions associated with constipation can include:
- Hirschsprungs disease – disorder of the abdomen that occurs when all or part of the large intestine has no nerves and therefore cannot function.
- Behavioural problems – some children do not want to defecate in public.
- Cow’s milk protein allergy – your baby will need to see a dietitian for advice about dietary modification.
It’s important to keep an eye out for changes in your baby’s poo. If you’re worried, speak to your healthcare professional or contact me at www.melaniemcgrice.com.
