Laxatives Safe For Newborns?

Constipation is a common problem for newborns and infants, and it can be distressing for parents. It is important to note that newborns who are breastfed rarely get constipated because breast milk acts as a natural laxative. However, if a newborn is formula-fed, parents must be careful not to dilute the formula milk as this can lead to constipation. If a newborn is constipated, laxatives are generally not recommended unless advised by a doctor or health professional. Instead, parents can try giving their baby extra water between feeds, gently massaging their tummy, or moving their legs in a cycling motion.

Breastfed babies rarely get constipated as breast milk is a natural laxative

Breastfed babies rarely get constipated. This is because breast milk is a natural laxative, containing substances such as polyunsaturated fatty acids that stimulate the colon to contract. Breast milk is also digested and absorbed quickly, so there is not much left over in the stomach or intestines.

Breast milk contains a type of sugar called lactose, which is broken down into glucose and galactose in the small intestine. Glucose and galactose are two sugars that are known to stimulate the production of intestinal gas and loosen the bowels. This can lead to "loose stools", which are softer than normal stool and more difficult to control. They can also be watery and seedy.

Breastfed babies typically have less gas, which is another reason why breast milk is considered a natural laxative. Studies have found that breastfed infants who were fed exclusively with formula had one less bowel movement per day on average than those who were breastfed.

The laxative effect of breast milk usually starts within the first few days after birth. Colostrum, or "first milk", has a mild laxative effect and disappears from breast milk after about six weeks. After this point, it is normal for a breastfed baby to have only one bowel movement every few days, or even just one bowel movement a week.

If a baby is constipated, it is not necessary to give them a laxative. Instead, parents can try feeding their baby on a regular schedule (every 3-4 hours), exposing them to plenty of fresh air and sunlight, giving them plenty of fluids, and mixing a small amount of apple sauce or prune juice into their feeding.

If your newborn is not yet eating solid foods, try giving them extra water in between feeds

It is important to note that newborn babies have different bowel habits from older children and adults. Doctors do not usually consider infrequent bowel movements to be a matter of concern in breastfeeding babies, as their bowel habits are different. Babies over 6 weeks old, especially, may go more than a week without passing a stool.

However, constipation may affect infants who are transitioning to solid foods and those who are formula-fed. If your newborn is not yet eating solid foods, you can try giving them extra water in between feeds. This is suitable for babies older than six months. For younger infants, it is recommended to consult a doctor before giving them water.

If your newborn is struggling with constipation, it is important to first evaluate their feeding habits and weight. Poor feeding can lead to dehydration and constipation. Infants who are exclusively breastfed rarely become constipated. In fact, it is common for breastfed babies to only have a bowel movement once every week or two. Therefore, infrequent bowel movements do not necessarily indicate constipation, especially if your child's stools are soft when they finally pass.

If your newborn is not yet eating solid foods but is experiencing constipation, you may give 1 to 2 ounces of 100% fruit juice (pear, prune, cherry, or apple) once a day. The sugar in the juice is hard to digest, so more liquid enters the intestines, which helps increase the frequency and water content of stools. The additional water softens and breaks up the stool. However, you should stop giving juice if your baby's stools become too loose. It is important to consult your paediatrician before giving your baby juice for the first time.

Newborns can be given 1-2 ounces of 100% fruit juice (pear, prune, cherry, or apple) once a day to relieve constipation

It is not recommended to give laxatives to babies who have not been weaned. If your baby has not been weaned and is constipated, there are other methods to relieve their discomfort. You can try giving them extra water in between feeds, gently massaging their tummy, or moving their legs in a cycling motion.

If your newborn is eating solid foods, you may be able to give them laxatives, but only under medical advice. First, make sure your baby is drinking plenty of water or diluted fruit juice, and increase the amount of fibre in their diet. If they are still constipated, a doctor may prescribe or recommend a laxative.

If your newborn is not yet eating solid foods, you may give them 1-2 ounces of 100% fruit juice (pear, prune, cherry, or apple) once a day to relieve constipation. If your baby is old enough for solid foods, you can feed them pureed pears, peaches, or prunes instead of giving them juice.

It is important to remember that constipation in newborns is not always a cause for concern. Breastfed babies, for example, may go up to a week without pooping, and this is not constipation if their stool is soft. If your baby is straining or crying when passing a bowel movement, this may be a sign of constipation.

If your newborn is old enough to eat solid foods, feed them pureed pears, peaches, or prunes

If your newborn is old enough to eat solid foods, feeding them pureed pears, peaches, or prunes can be a great way to help with constipation. These fruits are known to have a laxative effect and can be safely introduced to babies from around six months of age.

Pears are rich in fibre, which helps to support the digestive system and promote regular bowel movements. They also contain vitamin K and other nutrients such as potassium and vitamin C. When preparing pears for your baby, it is important to remove the core and cook the fruit until soft, or offer it raw if it is very ripe. You can also grate or mash the pear and mix it with other soft foods like warm cereal or yogurt.

Peaches are another excellent option for treating constipation in babies. They provide carbohydrates, fibre, and fluids, as well as potassium and vitamins A, C, E, and K. It is important to ensure that peaches are very soft and ripe or cooked until soft to reduce the risk of choking. Cooking, canning, or peeling peaches can also help minimise any potential allergic reactions.

Prunes are a third option for treating constipation in babies. They are rich in carbohydrates, fibre, iron, calcium, potassium, and vitamins B6 and K. Prunes contain sorbitol, a natural sugar-like substance that helps to soften stools. To prepare prunes for your baby, remove the pits and rehydrate the fruit in hot water before mashing or pureeing. You can also finely chop rehydrated or dried prunes and mix them with other foods like oatmeal or yogurt.

While these fruits can be beneficial for treating constipation, it is important to introduce them in small quantities and gradually increase the amount over time. Additionally, always consult with your paediatrician or healthcare provider before making any dietary changes or treating constipation in your baby.

If your newborn is eating solid foods, a GP may prescribe or recommend a laxative

It's important to note that constipation in newborns is not always a cause for concern. Some babies do not develop a bowel movement pattern for a while, and breastfed newborns may go up to a week without pooping. This is not considered constipation as long as the stool is soft.

If your newborn is eating solid foods and is constipated, it is recommended to consult a GP before giving them any laxatives. The GP may prescribe or recommend a laxative, but it is important to ensure that your baby is well-hydrated and consuming enough fluids in the form of water or diluted fruit juice. Additionally, increasing the amount of fibre in their diet can help with constipation.

There are also some home remedies that can help relieve constipation in newborns eating solid foods. These include:

• Feeding them pureed pears, peaches, or prunes
• If your baby eats cereal, try giving them oatmeal, wheat, or barley cereal instead of rice cereal, which can sometimes cause constipation
• Giving them a warm bath to relax their bowels
• Gently massaging their tummy in a clockwise direction, making firm but gentle circular motions from the belly button outwards
• Placing your baby on their back and gently moving their legs in a bicycling motion to stimulate the bowels

It is important to remember that laxatives should only be used under medical supervision for newborns eating solid foods. In most cases, dietary changes and home remedies are sufficient to relieve constipation in newborns.

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