What is constipation in children?
Constipation occurs when a child has bowel movements less often than usual or has pain or difficulty passing stool. Stools are often hard, dry, and may be difficult to pass.

Bowel movement frequency can vary widely in children. Some children may have three bowel movements a day, while others may have three bowel movements a week. As long as stools are soft and easy to pass, this range can be normal.

Constipation in infants
Constipation can look different in infants. Young babies may strain, grunt, or appear uncomfortable when having a bowel movement because their muscles are still developing. This is common and does not always mean a baby is constipated.

It is also normal for breastfed babies to go several days without having a bowel movement. If stools are soft when they occur and your baby is otherwise healthy, this is usually not a cause for concern.

Symptoms of constipation in children
Children experiencing constipation may have:

  • Hard, dry stools
  • Pain when passing stool
  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Infrequent bowel movements
  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Stool withholding behaviors, such as crossing their legs, squatting, hiding, or avoiding the bathroom
  • Stool accidents or leakage

Stool withholding
Passing large or painful stools can make children fearful of having another bowel movement. This may lead them to hold in stool to avoid discomfort.

Children may also avoid using the bathroom because they are busy, uncomfortable using public restrooms, or embarrassed.

Encopresis (stool soiling)
When constipation continues for a long period of time, stool can build up in the colon. Soft or liquid stool may leak around the blockage, causing stool accidents or soiling.

Children are often unaware that this is happening, and it may be mistaken for diarrhea. Treating the underlying constipation is important to resolve stool leakage.

Treatment for constipation in children
Treatment depends on your child’s age, symptoms, and severity of constipation.

Treatment options may include:

  • Cleanout: Removing built-up stool from the colon using enemas or laxatives
  • Medications: Laxatives may be used to soften stool and help the bowel move stool out
  • Healthy toilet habits: Sitting on the toilet at regular, unhurried times at least twice a day can help establish healthy bowel habits
  • Diet changes: Drinking plenty of non-caffeinated fluids and increasing fiber intake may help improve symptoms
  • Behavioral support: Positive reinforcement strategies may help children develop healthy bathroom habits

Your child’s provider will recommend the treatment plan that is best for your child.

Contact us
If you have questions about your child’s symptoms or treatment plan, please get in touch with our office at 612-871-1145.