any suggestions to get my 7 week old baby to poop

Melinda - posted on 08/16/2010

i teaspoon of sugar to 4 oz of water works for me everytime! and work with your babies little legs!

Krista - posted on 08/16/2010

The best thing to do right now is to go back to your doctor and ask if something else will work. You're getting a lot of conflicting advice, from water, to syrup, to juice, to suppositories. Your baby is only 7 weeks old, so the external remedies, like warm baths and bicycling his legs are fine, but you really do not want to be messing around with his tiny little digestive system by having him ingest all sorts of home remedies.

Please...leave medical treatment of your child up to those who are qualified to do so.

Michelle - posted on 08/16/2010

i swear by brown sugar but instead of putting it in water i add it staright to the bottle havent had a problem pooping since its much better than juice but when baby teeth start coming threw another alternative might be a better idea

Heather - posted on 08/16/2010

Try prune juice a tsp in his formula or breast milk should help. We've had to do it with my son

Heidi - posted on 08/16/2010

my little man had that problem too. my grandma told me to add a little bit of karo syrup to a couple of bottles a day. and it worked great. and if he is formula fed he might be getting to much iron, so buy some baby water, it comes in a gallon jug, i buy mine at wal-mart its got a pink cap on it, that helped mine.

Ana - posted on 08/16/2010

No water or juice at that age. Rub some baby oil on the tummy and the bicycle motion with the legs is good. Massage your baby is great, and second opinion with another Dr is best if you are thinking of giving something by mouth.

Angela - posted on 08/16/2010

Just put some sugar in a bottle of warm water, This will help him poop.

Gail - posted on 08/16/2010

prune juice in baby juice!!! or in the baby foods.... if it keeps happing u may want to see about having formula changed... itt could be an allergy, to formula..

Dora - posted on 08/16/2010

Whenever my son used to get constipated I used to mix 1/2 ounce of prune juice with 7oz of my breast milk. It worked like charm and no harmful side affects.

Donna - posted on 08/16/2010

I never said the baby should "chug" Rachael. I'm sure mom knows how a baby bottle dispenses.Water will certainly help with constipation. Don't understand ur commment here. Pls don't elaborate..I'm fine.

Roxie - posted on 08/16/2010

I had a ton of problems with my son, who is now 6 months, the only thing i found that worked was changing his formula to similac instead of infamil and put just a spoonfull of stage 1 fruit in one or two of the bottles a day. If it has been a few days since he went try peaches it may cramp him just a bit but it should do the trick and then to keep it from happening again use bannanas, applesauce or pears. I alternated between the 4 kinds. I also talked to my ped about this and he said it will not hurt the baby to give them the fruit. Also a lil water each day wont hurt and does help as well as a half of baby supository but make sure you use vaseline or some sort of lube to ease the suppository in.

Kristy - posted on 08/16/2010

Put a teaspoon of dark kero syrup in his bottle every other night this will help him

Wendy - posted on 08/16/2010

make bicycle motions with his legs...

Yunive - posted on 08/16/2010

try soy milk!and my momput some olive oil in her hands and massage my lil boys belly in circular motion really gentle!!!!!!!are u breast feeding?????that helps alot tooo.

Jo - posted on 08/16/2010

Is he breastfed or bottle?

Elizabeth - posted on 08/15/2010

try some light karo syrup, not the dark kind, it helped with my daughter when she was a few weeks old too. since he's so young just give him a droplet or two. for some babies it helps them have a bowel movement, but always ask your doctor before you give him anything. hopes this helps and good luck. if he doesn't have one in a few days take him to the doctor again and have them check again.

Angie - posted on 08/15/2010

If you don't want to use your finger use a digital thermometer with KY Jelly. DON'T feed him ANYTHING but breastmilk or formula!!!

Clair - posted on 08/15/2010

Prune juice diluted with warm water

Dana - posted on 08/15/2010

Yes, the link I posted wasn't from the WHO or AAP BUT, the statements are based on research.

Thank you, Loureen and Krista for taking the time to find links.

I would like to say for the safety of children or mothers who read threads like this. It is never safe to take actual medical advice from anyone. When dealing with issues like these, it is ALWAYS safe to talk to your child's doctor. They will give you the proper dosage of water-if need be. A generalized statement of just give your child water IS unsafe, especially in a baby so young.

Now, let's get back on topic, Thank you ~Dana ~WtCoM moderator

Rachael - posted on 08/15/2010

I did not intend to insult you, and I do apologize if that is what I did. I have to assume you are not in the medical field based upon the non-research based link. That does not mean that you are not an intelligent woman and an excellent mother to your own children, but I was slightly irritated at your claim that I did not have my research of medical facts in order. That being said, I think this thread has strayed from the intent of this question. Lets leave our differences aside and agree to disagree on this one shall we? If you have anything further please message me so we do not post here

Dana - posted on 08/15/2010

Rachel the point is, you can't be sure who you're giving advice to and how they will take it. Being in the medical field I would think you would understand that. There is no reason to throw insults around, you have no clue who I am or what my knowledge is either.

Rachael - posted on 08/15/2010

a breast fed infant does not need any extra water, and most formula fed infants to not require additional water either, unless they are exposed to extreme heat (which they should not be) but a small amount of water will not harm an infant.
However, my suggestion for constipation as I mentioned earlier is to mobilize the babies legs, and to put a war, but not hot compress on the stomach. I caution against massage, because although it works, and there is often no problem, there are alot of vital organs in an infants abdomen that can be damaged if too much pressure is applied.

There is a HUGE difference between needing something and whether or not it is dangerous. Water is not necessary for most infants, but is NOT harmful if given sparingly. Water intoxication and seizures only happen when too much water is given and the electrolyte balance is thrown off. Also, while it is normal for infants not to have a bowel movement daily, the fussiness seems to indicate that there may be some discomfort.
Good luck with your little one Terha!

Krista - posted on 08/15/2010

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics:

Until your baby starts eating solid foods, he’ll get all the water he needs from breastmilk or formula. In the first six months, additional water or juice is generally unnecessary for breastfed or bottle-fed infants. After a bottle-fed baby is six months old, you may offer him water between feedings, but don’t force it on him or worry if he rejects it. He may prefer to get the extra liquid from more frequent feedings. Breastfed infants generally do not need extra water if they are permitted adequate access to the breast for feeding.

And every other reputable parenting website out there says to not give plain water to children under 6 months unless you are under the direct advice of your doctor to do so. Babies' kidneys cannot get rid of excess plain water the way that our kidneys can, and it is very easy for their electrolytes to become imbalanced.

Go back to your doctor and ask if there is anything else you can try, but please do not risk your child's health by taking medical advice from laypeople.

Charlie - posted on 08/15/2010

The American Academy of Pediatrics, the World Health Organization, and numerous other credible organizations strongly recommend only breastmilk for at least the first six months. The World Health Organization specifically mentions "Not even water" may be given to infants.
Please read their web sites.

Massage in a clockwise circular motion and a warm bath it is not uncommon for a baby to not poo for a couple of days .

Rachael - posted on 08/15/2010

I have my facts straight Dana, and I am a medical professional, but I typically do not like to put that out here on this site because it is important for women to realize that even medical professionals have differing opinions and many things are case by case. So please do not argue with someone who is far more qualified than yourself to give medical advice. Google does not hold all the answers to the worlds questions and just so you know even the link you provided does not say that it is unsafe to give infants water, it merely cautions about giving them too much.

Dana - posted on 08/15/2010

I'm not going to sit here and argue with you, Rachael, I do hope however you start researching facts before you start giving out any other medical advice.

Rachael - posted on 08/15/2010

the human body is 90% water, it is 100% safe to give an infant as young a BIRTH water. You aren't having the baby chug an 8oz glass, but a little water is perfectly safe. Many breastfeeding supporters recommend nothing but breast milk under 6 months, but for formula fed babies there is NOTHING wrong with water. (there is nothing wrong with it for breast fed babies either other than the fear that it may interrupt the breastfeeding process. to say you cant feed a baby under six months water is silly considering many mothers begin feeding solids (which contain tons of water) between 4 and 6 months. WATER IS SAFE FOR EVERYONE!

Donna - posted on 08/15/2010

A simple glycerin suppository will do the trick. They are safe and easy to use. Wet with warm water to soften a bit then lay him on his back, lift the little legs and when it is inside gentle hold his bottom cheeks together for a minute or two. This gives the suppository time to desolve. Keep the diaper handy, because here it comes. Only once a day when needed. After a few he will go all by himself. Please remember to give your boy a full bottle of water each day as well. All the best.

Dana - posted on 08/15/2010

Here is a link describing why it's not okay to give babies 6 months and under water. If you google it you will find MANY links stating it's not safe.

http://www.homemade-baby-food-recipes.co...

Dana - posted on 08/15/2010

It is NOT safe to give a baby water.

Rachael - posted on 08/15/2010

first off, it is perfectly safe to give an infant water and if you are formula feeding this is what I would recommend, I would steer clear of juices at such a young age, though I have friends who swear by it. I have always used the warm compress on the belly while moving his legs around. it works pretty well. Good luck!

Katie - posted on 08/15/2010

I started by using a thermometer with vasoline then moved onto introducing water to my little girl's diet and after a while added dark Karo syrup too...eventually got suppositories and cut them in half and that DEFINITELY worked! That helped but she ended up pooping like every 3-4 days and it was "normal" for her....good luck!!!

Christelle - posted on 08/15/2010

My doctor told me that the vitamins that I was giving her caused her to be constipated. Gas drops also caused her bowel problems. I sprinkled a little bit of Benefiber in her milk (like 1/3 tsp), twice a day and she was having regular bowel movements after that. If you are giving the baby any type of gas drops; it typically won't allow babies to pass gas, thus the bubbles and air don't allow the BM to move through their intestines.

TANYA - posted on 08/15/2010

i always used a tablespoon of dark kero syrup my kids bottle.

Linda - posted on 08/15/2010

no water or juice for an infant. Definately switch to a low iron formula. When my kids had that problem the pediatrician suggested 1.0 cc of prune juice in a dropper, the next day, all was well! Also, if it is a constant issue, 1/2 tsp. in a 4.oz bottle of formula, of clear karo syrup, just for a week or so. Best of Luck.

Ashley - posted on 08/15/2010

corn syrup on the passy just a lil bit... old wives tall but it works...

BOBBI - posted on 08/15/2010

Try warm water and a little dark Karo syrup. Worked everytime for me!!!

JHOENEA - posted on 08/15/2010

cod liver oil r douch

Bo Lynn - posted on 08/15/2010

Don't have to stick you finger UP there but just wipe that spot really well, my ped says the stimulation of the nerves can get things going again. I did it and almost regretted it for all the poopy diapers I now had to clean!

Danielle - posted on 08/15/2010

juice is probably the best way to go..You can also rub a little petroleum jelly right around the hole..They feel it and it gives them the urge to poop..No joke.

Maggie - posted on 08/15/2010

put a little Kero syrup in his bottle at night time every other night that should help him.

Dana - posted on 08/14/2010

Please DO NOT give your seven week old baby juice or water! Both are very dangerous for a baby. You're not even supposed to give a baby water if they're under six months, let alone a 7 week old.



I'd find a new doctor if his only suggestion was to stick your finger up there, that doesn't even make sense. Change the formula and babies can go a few days without pooping anyhow.

Kandace - posted on 08/14/2010

I had the same problem with my son, some 27 yrs ago, and then with my grandson almost 3 yrs ago, this worked for them both. And that is to put about 1/2 tsp. of dark karo syrup or even molasses in their formula or bottle of breast milk.Start with this amount and then slowly increase if still not working. You may even check with the doctors office to make sure it is ok first, or if they have any other suggestions. Do not go over like 1T. per feeding though. At 7 wks, you may even try a bit less to start out with. Good luck!!! Also may try a warm-NOT HOT- compress on the tummy if his tummy seems too hard. Good Luck to you!!! It worked for my son and grandson so NANA's do know something here and there! Let me know how it does!!! (mynanakandi@aol.com)! Nana Kandi

Brandi - posted on 08/14/2010

If you're breastfeeding it isn't unusual for a baby to go several days without a bowel movement. While breastfeeding my daughter went on a stint where she'd only poop every 7 - 10 days and her doctor as well as the breastfeeding hotline in my area said this is perfectly normal. I did try the warm bath with baking soda as well as the baby thermometer with vasoline that was mentioned earlier. They were both really unnecessary for her though because she wasn't constipated and her next poops were still runny and regular, they just process the breast milk more efficiently so they don't have to go as much.

Since she's switched to formula she still goes a couple of days once in a while and I was recommended to give her a teaspoon of sugar in her bottle and this worked, she went about 2 hours later.

Krista - posted on 08/14/2010

I'd just like to say that feeding a 7 WEEK old child juice of any sort is NOT a good idea.

Patti - posted on 08/14/2010

well i used a little karo syrup in my sons bottles ,,,just need a drop in each bottle bc the iron in the formula constapates um,,,surprised ur peds dr didnt tell ya...my son is 20 mths now and has no problems and off karo syrup,,u can use generic corn syrup, but it softens and wont hurt the baby

Linda - posted on 08/14/2010

ARE YOU NURSING ARE BOTTLE FEEDING.IF BREAST FEEDING A FRIEND OF MINE SUGGESTED ,VEANO.WHICH YOU WOULD PUT ON YOUR FOOD AS DIRECTED ON THE BOTTLE.SHE SAYS GOOD LUCK...

Linda - posted on 08/14/2010

P.S THAT WOULD BE BABY PRUNE APPLE JUICE . TRY ONLY 1/2 OUNCE FIRST SINCE BABYT IS ONLY 7 WEEKS.THIS WILL WORK AND IT;S NATURAL !!!!

Linda - posted on 08/14/2010

P.S BABY PRUNE APPLE JUICE

Linda - posted on 08/14/2010

Yes i do have a very good idea.When my oldest was that age he had a problem with bowel movement's. I went the store and I bought apple prune juice.It work's wonder's.Start with only an ounce.And if that don't work try 2 ounces.Be prepared though because it will be loose.But baby will feel better.I had a friend that had the same problem with her child ,and he would scream something horrible when trying to go.She bought the juice and it fixed the problem.GOOD LUCK....