Patient's question:
The baby is 19 months old. Since starting solid food at six months, they have been pooping once or twice every morning. But in the past half month, they have started pooping every other day, then twice a day, and now every three days. However, it feels like each time they don’t want to poop. They have already started holding it in, even when they feel like it.Doctor's answer:
According to your description, considering the constipation caused by gastrointestinal dysfunction in infants, probiotics can be taken orally to regulate the intestines. Due to dry stools, the baby may refuse to squat for a bowel movement. Suppositories can be used to soften the stool before encouraging the baby to squat, gradually helping them develop the habit of defecating daily. It is recommended to give the baby more water and appropriate outdoor exercise. When introducing complementary foods, start with small amounts and gradually increase the quantity, providing appropriate vegetables and fruits to help establish a regular bowel movement habit. Gentle clockwise abdominal massage or applying sesame oil to the anus can also be used to gently massage the area around the anus to promote defecation. If necessary, consult a pediatrician for follow-up and follow the doctor's guidance for treatment.