#asktheexpert my baby hasn't pooped for three days. her milk intake is fine. she is 9 weeks 4 days old. Is there something to be done?

A. For a nine-week-old baby, it's common for breastfed babies to go a few days without pooping, especially as they grow. Breast milk is easily digestible, so sometimes there's very little waste. If your baby is formula-fed, it's still not unusual, though you might want to keep an eye on it. Here's what you can do: 1. Check for discomfort: As long as your baby is feeding well, gaining weight, and not showing signs of discomfort (like a hard, bloated belly or extreme fussiness), there may not be much to worry about. 2. Gently massage her belly: A gentle tummy massage or cycling her legs (moving her legs in a bicycle motion) can sometimes help stimulate bowel movements. 3. Hydration: Make sure she’s feeding well and getting enough fluids. Breast milk or formula should be enough at this stage. 4. Warm bath: Sometimes a warm bath can help relax her muscles and encourage a bowel movement. If your baby seems uncomfortable or if the stool is hard when she eventually goes, it may be a sign of constipation. In such a case, consulting a pediatrician would be a good step for advice on whether any intervention is needed.