#asktheexpert
My baby (3 months) is on breastfeeding. generally she passes stools with out any issue. but yesterday she faced slight difficulty in passing the stool and the stool came a bit hard which is never before.. after that she cried with stomach pain.. we have given colic drops. what can be done further

Question

#asktheexpert 
My baby (3 months) is on breastfeeding. generally she passes stools with out any issue. but yesterday she faced slight difficulty in passing the stool and the stool came a bit hard which is never before.. after that she cried with stomach pain.. we have given colic drops. what can be done further

Accepted Answer

It's quite common for babies, even those who are exclusively breastfed, to experience occasional difficulty in passing stools. Breastfed babies typically have softer stools, and the consistency can vary from day to day. A slight difficulty in passing stool can occur due to a variety of reasons, and in most cases, it's temporary.

Possible Causes: Normal Variation: Babies' digestive systems are still maturing, and stool patterns can vary. A slight change in consistency or difficulty may just be a temporary phase. Dehydration: If your baby is not feeding enough or if the weather is hot, she could become slightly dehydrated, leading to firmer stools. Diet Changes in Mother: If you've recently eaten something different or introduced a new food into your diet (if you're breastfeeding), it could affect your baby’s digestion. Growth Spurts: During growth spurts, babies might experience temporary changes in their digestion and bowel movements. Tummy Discomfort: Mild gas or tummy discomfort could cause a brief difficulty in passing stool. What You Can Do: Continue breastfeeding: Breast milk provides all the necessary hydration and nutrients. Ensure your baby is feeding regularly. Gentle tummy massage: A soft circular massage on your baby's tummy can help relieve any discomfort and encourage bowel movement. Bicycle legs exercise: Gently moving your baby’s legs in a cycling motion can help relieve gas and stimulate digestion. Monitor stool pattern: Keep an eye on her stool consistency. If it remains hard or if difficulty continues for more than a few days, it may be worth consulting your pediatrician. Hydration: If you’re in a hot climate, ensure your baby stays hydrated, especially with regular breastfeeding.

In most cases, these types of issues are not concerning and tend to resolve on their own. However, if the discomfort persists or worsens, or if you notice other signs like vomiting, fever, or a significant change in stool patterns, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.