Constipation in Infants: How to Treat Constipation in Infants?

Infants who are exclusively breastfed are less prone to constipation. They are more prevalent in infants fed modified milk and those who continue breastfeeding after the introduction of supplementary foods [3]. The causes of constipation in infants are multifaceted. If a newborn does not pass stool for one or two days, this typically indicates the presence of congenital abnormalities, such as intestinal obstruction in cystic fibrosis or congenital intestinal malformations. In such cases, surgical intervention is necessary. In slightly older children, a sudden cessation of bowel movements may suggest the presence of various chronic conditions. However, the most common cause of constipation is functional, and the most frequent causes include: dietary errors, such as inadequate fluid intake, insufficient fiber consumption, or a low-calorie diet; withholding bowel movements by children, which often occurs in a new environment, e.g., in daycare; diseases, such as cerebral palsy, hypothyroidism, vitamin D toxicity, or irritable bowel syndrome [1].

The initial step involves eliminating organic causes of hard stools that necessitate causal therapy. If stools are firm and occur less frequently than once daily, medical consultation is advisable. For formula-fed infants, introducing milk formulas enriched with pro- or prebiotics, such as galactooligosaccharides and fructooligosaccharides, is recommended to promote the colonization of beneficial bacterial strains in the intestines. Key elements in managing infant constipation include proper nutrition, adequate hydration, leg exercises, and gentle abdominal massage. Constipation in infants is a common occurrence, so seeking medical advice for persistent bowel movement difficulties is prudent.