What should I do about baby constipation?

Constipation in babies is especially common when starting solid foods. Your baby's age is really important:

0-6 months (breastfeeding only): Constipation is rare in exclusively breastfed babies. If your little one is straining and their poop is hard, the first thing to do is have mom drink more fluids. Don't give water, juice, or supplements—that's a no-go. Talk to your pediatrician before making any changes.

Formula feeding 0-6 months: Don't make the formula thinner than the instructions say; that can be unsafe. If baby is over 2 months and your pediatrician gives the okay, you can offer a little water once or twice a day (in the amount your doctor suggests).

6+ months (eating solids):

• Fiber-rich foods: Pear, peach, apricot, prune puree; cooked squash or broccoli; dried apricots (mashed really soft into a puree)
• Fluids: Keep offering water between solid meals during the day (age-appropriate amounts)
• Movement: Bicycle kicks with your baby's legs, gentle circular massage on the belly can help with bowel movements
• Yogurt/kefir can help thanks to probiotics

When to see the doctor:

• Constipation lasts longer than a week
• There's blood in the poop (could be from a tiny tear, but have it checked anyway)
• Baby stops gaining weight or seems in pain
• No poop for 3 days straight (the timeline is even shorter for newborns)

Most of the time constipation clears up with the steps above. Don't use suppositories, glycerin sticks, or enemas on your own—only if your pediatrician prescribes them.