Baby Laxatives: Calming Upset Stomachs?

Can a Baby Laxative Be Used to Calm the Stomach?

Laxatives are medications used to treat constipation. While laxatives can be effective in providing constipation relief, they are not always the best solution and should be used with caution, especially in babies and children. In this article, we will explore the topic of using baby laxatives to calm the stomach and provide information on alternative approaches to address constipation in babies.

Baby laxatives should only be used after consulting a doctor

Baby Laxatives: Consult a Doctor First

Constipation in Babies

Constipation is a common issue for babies and children, and it is often characterised by infrequent bowel movements that are hard and painful to pass. However, it is important to note that normal bowel movement patterns vary widely among babies and are influenced by factors such as the type of milk they consume, whether they have started solids, and the specific foods they eat.

Signs of Constipation

Some signs that your baby may be constipated include infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, and straining or crying while passing waste. Constipated babies may also experience a bloated or taut tummy due to the pressure and bloating caused by constipation. Additionally, they may feel full quickly or lose their appetite due to the growing discomfort.

Remedial Actions

Before considering laxatives, there are several strategies you can try to relieve your baby's constipation. These include:

• Adjusting your diet if you are breastfeeding, as your baby may be sensitive to something you are eating.
• Switching to a different type of formula for bottle-fed babies, as sensitivity to certain ingredients can cause constipation.
• Introducing solid foods that are high in fibre, such as cooked grains like barley, oats, or quinoa, and whole-grain breads, crackers, and bran cereals.
• For babies over six months, offering occasional prune or pear juice can help speed up colon contractions and promote bowel movements.
• Encouraging movement, such as leg bicycles for younger babies, as physical activity can help speed up digestion.
• Gently massaging your baby's stomach and lower abdomen to stimulate bowel movements.

Consulting a Doctor

If these changes do not help alleviate your baby's constipation, it is important to consult a doctor before trying over-the-counter laxatives or other techniques. A doctor will be able to provide specific instructions and recommendations based on your baby's individual needs.

It is worth noting that laxatives are not recommended for babies who have not yet been weaned. For unweaned babies, it is advised to give them extra water in between feeds, gently massage their tummy, and move their legs in a cycling motion to help with constipation.

Remember, baby laxatives should only be used after consulting a doctor to ensure the safety and well-being of your little one.

Breastfed babies rarely need laxatives

If a breastfed baby is constipated, it is usually the result of changing to formula or starting solid foods. Certain foods, such as rice cereal and dairy milk, may cause constipation in babies younger than one year. Other possible causes include not having enough liquids, illness, withholding stool, and stress.

If a baby is unweaned, laxatives are not recommended. Instead, parents can try giving them extra water in between feeds, gently massaging their tummy, or moving their legs in a cycling motion. If the baby is eating solid foods, parents can also increase their fibre intake and ensure they are drinking plenty of water or diluted fruit juice. If they are still constipated, a doctor may prescribe or recommend a laxative.

Laxatives are medications used to treat constipation and come in different forms, such as osmotics, fibre or bulk, stool softeners, stimulants, and lubricants. While laxatives are generally safe when used as recommended, they should only be given to babies under the guidance of a trained healthcare professional.

Laxatives are not recommended for babies who haven't been weaned

Another method to try is gently massaging their tummy and moving their legs in a cycling motion. This can aid in stimulating the bowels and encouraging a bowel movement. These methods are safe and effective ways to help relieve constipation in babies who have not yet been weaned.

If your baby has started eating solid foods, you may be able to introduce laxatives, but it is important to first consult with a healthcare professional. They may recommend increasing your baby's fluid intake, particularly water or diluted fruit juice, as well as ensuring they are consuming enough fibre.

It is important to remember that laxatives are not typically the first line of treatment for constipation, even in older children. Lifestyle changes, such as dietary modifications and increasing fluid intake, are usually recommended first. If these measures do not help, then a healthcare professional may suggest the use of laxatives.

It is crucial to always check with your doctor or healthcare provider before giving any type of laxative to your baby or child, as they can provide guidance on the most suitable treatment options and ensure the safety of your little one.

Osmotic laxatives are safe for pregnant women

Osmotic laxatives are generally considered safe for pregnant women to use in the short term. Osmotic laxatives are not well-absorbed by the intestine, so very little of the medication is expected to enter the bloodstream. This means that exposure to the pregnancy is expected to be small.

However, it's important to note that osmotic laxatives should only be used occasionally or in the short term by pregnant women to avoid dehydration or electrolyte imbalances. While osmotic laxatives are considered safe for pregnant women, it's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before taking any new medication, especially during pregnancy.

Some examples of osmotic laxatives include salts such as magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) and sodium bisphosphate (OsmoPrep), and sugars such as lactulose and polyethylene glycol (Miralax). Miralax is often a first-choice medication for doctors treating constipation during pregnancy. It is well-tolerated and effective when used at regular doses, but it can cause side effects such as diarrhoea and too many bowel movements if taken in excess.

Pregnant women can also try other methods to relieve constipation, such as increasing their fluid intake, eating more high-fibre foods, and getting regular exercise.

Laxatives can be given as chewables, mixed in drinks, or suppositories

Laxatives are available in a variety of forms, including chewables, liquids that can be mixed into drinks, and suppositories.

Chewable laxatives are a convenient and portable option, often individually wrapped and suitable for both adults and children aged four and above. They typically work within 30 minutes to six hours of consumption and are stimulant-free, making them a gentle option that works with the body's natural processes. An example of this type of laxative is Dulcolax Soft Chews, which are fruit-flavoured and cramp-free.

Liquid laxatives can be mixed into drinks and are a good choice for picky eaters as they often have a neutral taste, texture, and odour. They usually take effect within 24 to 48 hours of consumption. An example of this type of laxative is MiraLAX Mix-In Laxative Powder, which can be mixed into any drink.

Suppositories are inserted into the rectum using a small applicator and are a fast-acting option, providing relief within 15 to 60 minutes. They are typically well-tolerated and have minimal side effects. An example of this type of laxative is Pedia-Lax Laxative Liquid Glycerin Suppositories, which are suitable for children aged two to five years.

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