We can define it as hard and/or difficult stools that are less frequent and distressing than normal. Of course, if you ask what this 'normal' is; the normal of each child is his/her own defecation pattern. Newborn babies can defecate after each sucking, but as they grow older, every 2 days or every 7 days can also be stated as normal. The key point is that no matter what these periods are, they should defecate in a normal consistency without any difficulty.
What causes constipation?
Sometimes it can be a symptom of underlying diseases, but most of the time there is no underlying cause (except in the newborn period: Constipation in the newborn period is not normal and a doctor should be consulted!)
Mostly reasons:
- Not eating an adequate, balanced diet \
- Not drinking plenty of water \
- Less movement( in front of TV PC online education) \
- Stool retention (postponing at school, daycare or during play) \
- Toilet training before the age of 2.5 (with a coercive insistent attitude) \
these causes harden the consistency of the stool and disturb its regularity, as a result constipation develops.
How do we prevent it from happening?
- For the first 6 months, only breast milk should be used, and in the absence of breast milk, a formula milk recommended by your physician should be used. Until the age of 2, breast milk (or formula milk) should be continued. \
- Toilet training should be given at the age of 2.5 and after, and should not be forceful and insistent \
- A foot riser must be used in the toilet bowl, knees should be higher than the hips \
- Obesity should be prevented, toilet retention should be prevented \
- Junk food should be limited and fiber intake should be increased with dried fruits and age-appropriate snacks \
- Ensure age-appropriate water intake \
- Sitting on the toilet should be ensured after main meals \
- Foods such as probiotic yogurt and kefir should be taken, and warm water should be drunk when you wake up in the morning. \
Prolonged constipation can cause hemorrhoids, cracks in the buttocks and bleeding. Do not neglect it.
This article is for general information only and does not replace an examination or diagnosis. Please consult your doctor about your child's condition.
