Constipation in children: Things you need to know

Constipation is a condition in which your child may have:

• Infrequent or fewer than two bowel movements a week
• Hard, dry, or lumpy stools
• Difficulty or pain while passing stools

Common Causes of constipation in Children

• Withholding the bowel movement (due to fear of using the toilet, uneasiness associated with using public restrooms, or unwillingness to take a break from play)
• Early toilet training, which can make the child hold on the stools or ignore the urge to poop
• A low amount of fiber or insufficient fluid content (i.e. less water or juices) in the child’s diet
• Changes in the child’s routine (due to travel or beginning of school)
• Allergy to cow’s milk or excessive consumption of dairy products
• An abrupt transition in the diet (e.g. a shift from a liquid diet to a solid diet or from breastfeeding to bottle feeding)

• Tips for Managing Constipation in Children

                 Provide adequate fluids to your child.