If you have just introduced solids to your baby and they are experiencing constipation, that’s normal so do not be too alarmed. It is alarming if you begin to see your baby’s belly bulge a bit from retained poop. Call your healthcare provider if you have a serious worry.

Here are some small natural ways to help your constipated baby poop at home

1. Tummy or lower back massage

   There are pressure points in the lower back, and in the feet to help baby to relax the muscles needed to release poop. Here is a helpful foot massage video by Lucy’s Angels.

2. Body Movements

   Bicycle leg movements and other stretches can help to naturally massage the lower intestine.

3. Pear Juice

   The sorbitol in pear juice, as well as prune juice, draws water into the bowels to soften the stool for those who are constipated.

4. Increase liquid intake

   Overall, you can increase liquid intake and focus on softening the stool so as to not keep packing in too much solid food which may harden the waste even further.

5. Offer a baby probiotic

   Probiotics are great digestion regulators.

6. Deep Breathing

   Baby follow your cues. By deep breathing with their backs to your belly, they can replicate this breath which may help them to get ready to move the poop. This tip would be really well-paired with tip #7.

7. Try Elimination Communication

   Try holding baby over the toilet, using the Elimination Communication method. There are positions, like knees to belly/chest, that give the baby’s poop a clear exit. This can be done as baby is held over the toilet with their back to your belly as you breathe deep and slow. Anyone who really has to go will get the picture in this calming position. If baby is trying to stretch out and seems uncomfortable then don’t force the position and instead try some of the other tips first.

8. Magnesium

   Try a magnesium supplement (for mom) if you’re a breastfeeding mom. Magnesium is a major missing mineral for a large percentage of the population. Magnesium can help relax our muscles and thus our large intestine is a large muscle that when relaxed is able to release waste more easily. Try it. As a breastfeeding mom, you may be able to transfer the added magnesium, via breast milk, to your baby.

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