Constipation

Constipation

Having trouble passing a stool (pooping). This is common in young children due to dietary changes and toilet training.

What To Expect:

  • Pain with pooping
  • Hard, pebble-like stools
  • Abdominal cramping or pain
  • Infrequent stools: every 3-7 days
  • Incontinence (having accidents): pooping in pants after being potty trained

Important to Know:

  • Encourage lots of fluids: water and fruit juices (apple, pear, or prune)
  • Regular servings of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Limit intake of binding foods: applesauce, rice, milk, cheese, gelatin (fruit snacks, Jell-O)
  • Stool softeners/suppositories/enemas if needed
  • If a child is toilet trained, have the child sit on toilet after meals for 5-10 minutes
  • Place stool under feet to keep knees at hip level—squat position can help pass poop
  • Ensure patient stays active, lack of activity slows bowel function
  • For infants: massage tummy, bicycle legs
  • Clean skin well after pooping to prevent skin irritation which could cause pain with further stool

When to call the clinic:

  • Worsening abdominal pain
  • Blood in stool
  • >2-3 days without a stool (unless breastfed)

Weekend, Holiday & After-Hours Pediatric Care

Learn More