Constipation in breastfed babies is a very rare scenario and is something uncommon in the medical world. It rarely happens because breast feed milk digests well in the stomach and is a natural laxative. Babies start having problems with constipation when solid foods or formulated milk is introduced. Formulated milk has contents which are processed and no longer natural causing constipation in infants. The best way to remedy this would be giving your baby breast milk. Infants show signs of constipation when their stools look like hard, little pellets or its consistency is thicker than that of a peanut butter.
Reason for constipation in breastfed babies:
1. serious illness
2. Formulated milk
3. Eating solid foods
Treatments for babies under 6 months:
1. If the baby has been exclusively breastfed, you must consult see a doctor right away. This may be signs of a more serious condition which needs medical treatment. Constipation accompanied with weakness, weak cries and reduced eating habits could be a sign of botulism. Even though it is a very rare case it is a life threatening illness and requires prompt medical care.
2. Stop giving the baby formulated milk as a supplement and revert to exclusive breastfeeding. The protein found in cow’s milk is very irritating to the intestines.
3. Mothers who have never breastfed before or have problems lactating should ask help from an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). If breastfeeding can’t be given try using donor breast milk.
Treatments for babies older than 6 months:
1. Increase the amount of breast milk that your baby gets and lessen his solid food or formulated milk. Ask a registered dietician what foods can be given to constipation in breastfed babies. In time your baby will cope in his tolerance to solid foods. If the constipation continues ask your doctor for proper medication.
2. Parents may give an ounce of sorbitol-containing juice such as prune, pear or apple if they are certain that the baby is suffering from constipation and only if approved by the doctor.
3. Some medical practitioners recommend corn syrup for constipation in breastfed babies. Put 1 teaspoon in 2 ounces of water. Never put or mix the syrup directly with the milk. Corn syrup can cause diarrhea and electrolyte imbalance to young infants and can be harmful.
For a nursing mom the trick lies on what her baby eats and digests. She may discuss with a health care provider or pediatrician about constipation in breastfed babies if there are other matters that need to be clarified.