A member asked:
My five month old will go 5-10 days without a bowel movement. is this normal?
3 doctor answers • 21 doctors weighed in
Dr. Anatoly Belilovskyanswered
Pediatrics 36 years experience
Yes: Breast milk is so completely digested, the stool is either mostly water (in which case it can be frequent), or it may take up to 10 days to gather enough for a bowel movement (you'll see more wet diapers, then). The big question is whether the child is gaining weight properly (a starving child will obviously have fewer stools), or whether there are any other concerns such as vomiting, jaundice, l.
6.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Martin Ganek commented
undefined 51 years experience
The frequency is not a problem, as long as the baby is acting well, eating well, and having adequate urination. If there is recurrent attempts by the infant to produce a bowel movement, as demonstrated by straining and pushing, then constipation may be suspected
Sep 14, 2013
Dr. Faryal Ghaffar commented
Pediatrics 31 years experience
Definition of constipation is relative. If your infant passes hard stools that are difficult to pass even on day 3rd it is not normal but if stools every few days but is soft than it is normal.
Sep 14, 2013
Dr. Roy Benarochanswered
Pediatrics 28 years experience
Yes: Breast fed babies can go very long between bms. As long as baby is healthy and happy and eating well and stools are soft, there's nothing to worry about.
6.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Nanette Nuessleanswered
Specializes in Pediatrics
Yes: This is not unusual, especially if your infant is breastfed. Bottlefed babies stool more frequently. If your baby is not uncomfortable, do not be concerned. If your baby seems upset or uncomfortable, try increasing his or her water intake and see if stooling doesn't increase. Increase 2-4 ounces a day this week, and another 2-4 ounces a day next week until you see results.
6.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Mar 8, 2019
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