Patient's question:
A 58-day-old baby hasn't had a bowel movement for five days. They tried using honey to stimulate the rectum, and the baby defecated when it was pushed but not when it wasn't, which caused confusion. Then they took the baby for pediatric acupuncture, and the baby also defecated on the day of the treatment but not afterward, leading to further confusion. The baby is breastfed occasionally with formula, and their water intake is good. They have been taking probiotics for the past four or five days, but still haven't had a bowel movement. What should they do?Doctor's answer:
If a little baby hasn't had a bowel movement for several days, it may be considered that the child has gastrointestinal dysfunction or poor digestion, and it's also possible to have constipation. If the baby doesn't have abdominal pain, is eating well, sleeps deeply, and is in a normal state of spirits, you can massage the abdomen to promote intestinal peristalsis. The massage should be done around the navel in a clockwise direction. If the breastfeeding mother has a stomachache, it can affect the child. It is recommended that you drink more water and eat a simple diet. If necessary, you can take the child to see a doctor and consult a local pediatrician for diagnosis. I hope this helps you, and wish you a happy life.