Can't Poop Not Constipated Though

by Melanie
(Texas)

My seven week old has had this problem for about 6 weeks now. He just doesn't seem to have the urge to poop.

We have him on a sensitive formula, and also put corn syrup in his bottles, and even give him an ounce of pear juice every day. But he still doesn't poop on his own.

The only time we get him to go is when we help him. And we try to wait on him and then it gets to where he is upset and hurting. So we go ahead and help. Do you know what could be causing that?

Find answers and comments to this question below.

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Baby Help Line Response:

Hi Melanie!

Since your baby has had this problem right from the start, I really think you should contact a pediatrician if you haven't already. (And if you did talk to one who wasn't good, contact another!)

Straining as well as some tummy pain is completely normal for young babies. Also, formula-fed babies usually pass stools less frequently in the beginning than breastfed babies. (Later on, the opposite is more common.)

I don't know how long you wait for your baby to pass stools before you help him. At around two months, babies tend to start pooping less often. However, a rule of thumb is for a bottle-fed baby to at least go every second of third day.

However, it seems as if you are really doing all you can to help your baby, and the problem remains. Have you tried massaging his tummy? That might help a little bit.

I know is very rare cases, babies can have a somewhat small anus, making pooping harder than for the average baby. However, babies having this condition also usually have severe constipation, poor weight gain and other problems, so if your baby is not constipated and healthy, such a problem is unlikely.

Milk allergy or intolerance might also be possible reasons for his problems, unless the formula you use is completely milk free of course. Also something to discuss with a pediatrician!

Most likely, his intestines are just immature still. Sensitive formula, together with massage and "poop-exercises", such as bicycling his legs are good ways to help him. Since he is not constipated, I'd suggest you reconsider the corn syrup and pear juice or at least discuss it with a doctor.

So, my best advice, since your baby has had this problem for such a long time, it is to talk to his doctor about it.

I really wish you good luck!

Paula

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