My baby is pooping after every feed. Seems her stomach is upset. She is not sleeping well. What to do?

Question

Accepted Answer

If your baby is pooping after every feed and seems uncomfortable, it could be due to a few different factors. Here’s what you can do to address the issue:

### **1. **Evaluate Feeding:**
- **Check for Intolerance:** Ensure that the baby isn’t reacting to something in your diet if you’re breastfeeding, or to the formula if you’re bottle-feeding.
- **Feeding Frequency:** Frequent pooping might be normal for some babies, but monitor if the stools are very loose or if there’s any pattern.

### **2. **Monitor Stool Consistency:**
- **Check for Diarrhea:** If the stools are very watery, it might be diarrhea. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration, so ensure your baby stays hydrated.
- **Color and Consistency:** Keep track of the stool color and consistency and report any unusual changes to your pediatrician.

### **3. **Comfort Measures:**
- **Burping:** Ensure your baby is burped well after feeds to reduce gas and discomfort.
- **Tummy Time:** Gentle tummy massages or tummy time can sometimes help with digestion and ease discomfort.

### **4. **Feeding Adjustments:**
- **Smaller, Frequent Feeds:** If possible, try smaller, more frequent feeds to see if this helps reduce the frequency of bowel movements.
- **Check Formula:** If you’re using formula, ensure it’s appropriate for the baby’s age and consider discussing it with your pediatrician if you suspect it might be causing issues.

### **5. **Sleep Environment:**
- **Comfortable Sleep Space:** Ensure your baby’s sleep environment is calm and comfortable. Maintain a consistent sleep routine.
- **Soothing Techniques:** Use soothing techniques such as gentle rocking or white noise to help with sleep.

### **6. **Consult a Pediatrician:**
- **Persistent Issues:** If the issue persists or if your baby shows signs of distress, discomfort, or dehydration, consult your pediatrician.
- **Medical Evaluation:** The pediatrician can evaluate if there is an underlying issue causing the frequent bowel movements and suggest appropriate treatment or dietary changes.

### **7. **Hydration:**
- **Maintain Hydration:** Ensure that your baby stays hydrated, especially if there’s a lot of pooping or if diarrhea is present.

Monitoring your baby’s symptoms and consulting with a healthcare professional will help you manage the situation effectively and ensure your baby’s comfort and health.