Less frequent bowel movements in 6mo since starting solids

[arabellaandbaby]

Hi all

Hoping for some advice please. My 6mo BF DD used to pass stools a few times a day, often during and immediately after a feed.

I started her on solids a couple of weeks ago, and now she hardly seems to go to the loo. She hasn't had a bowel movement yesterday or today at all, and seems to strain throughout the day. She has been refusing her solids and milk feeds today so has had very little to eat. Could this be because she is constipated and wants to open her bowels first before trying to feed again?

Thanks in advance.

Hi arabellaandbaby

Try giving her plenty of water from a sippy cup through out the day and with her solids when you feed her.

My little girl(7 months) doesnt have bowl movements till the 2nd or 3rd day sometimes. Then she will have more than one dirty nappy throughout the day when she does.

Its ok her body is probably still getting use to the introduction of new food. I think the type of food you give may also take longer to digest.

If she is refusing food or feed dont force her or worry too much. Babies at this age are good at controlling their own food intake.

hope that helps :)

Apparently babies can often become constipated when starting them on solids. The advice I have been given is to mix some fruit in with whatever you are giving, eg if you are using baby rice whack in some apple or pear puree with it. This should make it easier for her to go to the loo as fruit tends to act as a mild laxative. The advice from Saira is good too about lots of water.

If you are really concerned it may be worth talking to your GP or HV, even if just to reassure you. And try not to worry - my DS has not been for about 4 days in the past, just usually means I can look forward to a huge explodapoo that goes everywhere! :)

Thank you very much to you both, Saira and tinkerbug, for your replies. Much appreciated. DD's not showing signs of constipation, just straining as she usually does even if the stools are very loose! As long as others have experienced the same, I won't worry too much. Thanks again.

Same thing has happened with my DD - she went 6 days without a poo at one point.

Yes, it seems to be fairly common when the baby goes onto solids, esp. if the baby was breastfed.

The fluids advice is good. Diluted prune juice is another one to try. My baby book suggested letting the baby suck on a bit of fresh orange, but not everyone's happy to give citrus straight away.

I let my DD suck freshly squeezed orange juice from my finger and it seems to help keep her regular! She's been back to a pooey nappy once a day for the last couple, anyway.

I wouldn't worry about it, esp. if your LO doesn't appear in any discomfort.

Feel pleased you're getting the odd respite from the stinky poos that come with solids!!!