My 19 month old baby has not had a bowel movement in 5 days. Should I be concerned?

Hello Ma'am,

Don't worry, bouts of constipation are very common in children. Most often, constipation is due to insufficient fluid or fiber intake.

First, you can start by increasing the frequency of drinking and the amount of fluid in the child. Give more fluids (but not too much cow's milk) and focus on high-fiber foods (prunes, oat and barley cereals, sweet potatoes). We'll try to give fluids (water, juice, etc.) every 3 hours or so to stimulate her bowel movements.

Also, move your baby's legs as if you were pedaling him, and gently massage his belly, clockwise, 3 to 4 times a day. If he or she is able to walk, encourage exercise!

A bowel movement should be expected within 24 to 48 hours. If these methods do not work, a laxative such as Lax-A-Day and a lengthwise-cut children's glycerin suppository to be inserted as needed to stimulate the rectal ampulla can be tried. Be aware that laxatives can take up to 3 days to take effect so nonpharmacologic methods and increased fiber and fluid intake should be continued.

I am attaching this column from Born and Grown for tips on preventing constipation in children: https://naitreetgrandir.com/fr/sante/naitre-grandir-sante-enfant-constipation-selle/

Do not hesitate to contact me with any additional questions.

Happy day,

Kamilia Idir, Pharmacy Intern. Supervised by Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist.