Newborn Opening Bowels

[AllABitNew]

Hi,

Just looking for any advice or reassurance really.

My 3 week old (born a month early) seems to be having real issues pooing and gets quite distressed and upset with themselves.

Passing wind seems to have gotten easier but managing to use the right muscles to move a poo hasn't.

We try tummy massage and leg cycling which sometimes helps, but has anyone else been in this situation and when does it improve? Currently managing to go about once per day (which I know isn't technically constipated) but it's just sad to see.

Formula fed fyi

Once a day is totally fine! When my baby was a couple weeks old it was only every 2-3 days and once 5 days with no poo

Could try a comfort milk, cow and gate do one. X

Both of mine screamed about pooing at that age. They have to learn to tense and release the right muscles. It's called infant dyschezia.

You sound like such a wonderful caring new mum, OP!
Maybe change the formula you are feeding her/him. Talk to your midwife/ gp/pediatrician for proper advice.

Thanks for the replies everyone 🙂

@Unexpectedlysinglemum yeah we're not concerned with the frequency as such (or the volume when he does go!🤯) more that he struggles.

@Wrongsideofpennines this is amazing, thanks! I knew this was a thing but not what it was called so thank you.

@Whataretalkingabout that's kind to say, thanks 😊 and we are definitely trying. Taking it in turns overnight (my turn tonight 😴).

There are so many things that even knowing are normal, it helps to hear others experience and reassurance.

Our 11 week old still does this would love to know when it gets easier!

My 9 week old also does this - no advice really, just hope it resolves soon!

Once a day isn’t unusual for formula fed, the issue is more just when they’re uncomfortable with it. Have you tried giving a few sips of cooled boiled water in a bottle? Literally tiny amounts, not more than an ounce. An older midwife suggested it for my DD and it works wonders!

Ahh I was hoping everyone would say 'oh yeah, totally stops by 4 weeks old 😅

I've heard about cool boiled water, haven't had the nerve to try yet haha

My twins was like that but seem to be going a bit more now I give me a mixture of cold and warm milk which seems to help
they are on nutriprem 2 as they was born 8wks early.
also my doctor said it is fine for them to have cooled boiled water but like half a oz every now and then