All About Baby and Newborn Constipation

You’re changing your baby’s diaper and notice something unusual—it’s been a while since their last poop, and when they do go, it seems hard and difficult to pass. Your little one seems uncomfortable, strained, or even crying. You start wondering, is my baby constipated? Should I be worried? 

As a Certified Sleep Sense Consultant at Lullabub Sleepers, I’ve worked with many parents whose babies experience digestive discomfort that also disrupts sleep. Baby constipation is common, and while it can be stressful, the good news is that there are ways to help your little one feel better—without completely derailing their sleep routine. 

In this guide, I’ll explain why babies get constipated, how to relieve discomfort, and what this means for sleep training a baby. 

What is Baby Constipation? 

Constipation in babies occurs when stools become hard, dry, and difficult to pass. It’s more common when babies start formula feeding, transitioning to solids, or aren’t getting enough fluids. 

While newborns can go several days without pooping (which is normal for breastfed babies), true constipation is when stools become firm, pellet-like, and cause distress. 

Signs Your Baby is Constipated 

Wondering if your baby is constipated? Look out for these signs: 

✔ Infrequent stools (less than usual for your baby’s feeding pattern) ✔ Straining or crying when trying to pass stool ✔ Hard, dry, pellet-like poop ✔ Tight belly and bloating ✔ Decreased appetite or fussiness 

If your baby is still active, feeding well, and has soft stools when they do go, they’re likely not constipated—even if they poop less frequently. 

What Causes Baby Constipation? 

Baby constipation can happen for a few reasons: 

• Formula Feeding – Some formula-fed babies experience firmer stools compared to breastfed babies. 

• Starting Solids – When babies transition to solids (around 6 months), their digestive system takes time to adjust. 

• Dehydration – If your baby isn’t getting enough breast milk, formula, or water (for older babies), stools can become hard. 

• Dairy Sensitivities – Some babies react to cow’s milk or certain formula ingredients, leading to constipation. 

How to Relieve Baby Constipation 

If your baby is constipated, there are simple, natural ways to help. 

1. Give Your Baby a Tummy Massage 

Gently rub your baby’s belly in a circular motion clockwise to help stimulate bowel movements. 

2. Try the “Bicycle” Leg Exercise 

Lay your baby on their back and move their legs in a cycling motion to encourage digestion. 

3. Adjust Their Diet (If on Solids) 

If your baby has started solids, include high-fiber foods like: ✔ Puréed prunes, pears, or peaches ✔ Oatmeal or whole grains ✔ Spinach or peas 

Avoid too much rice cereal, bananas, or dairy, which can worsen constipation. 

4. Offer More Fluids 

For formula-fed babies, ensure they’re getting enough milk. Babies over 6 months can have a small amount of water between feedings. 

5. Warm Bath for Relaxation 

A soothing warm bath can relax your baby’s abdominal muscles and make it easier to pass stool. 

If constipation lasts more than a week, causes extreme discomfort, or includes blood in the stool, consult your pediatrician. 

How Baby Constipation Affects Sleep Training a Baby 

A constipated baby often wakes more frequently, fusses before bedtime, and struggles to sleep comfortably. If your baby is usually settling well but suddenly becomes restless, constipation could be the culprit. 

Tips for Managing Sleep While Dealing with Constipation: 

✔ Stick to Your Sleep Routine – Comfort your baby but keep their bedtime schedule as consistent as possible. ✔ Use Gentle Rocking or Patting – If your baby is in discomfort, avoid unnecessary sleep props, but offer soothing techniques. ✔ Adjust Night Feeds If Necessary – Sometimes, adjusting nighttime feeding portions can help digestion. ✔ Be Patient – Once your baby’s tummy feels better, they’ll return to their normal sleep patterns. 

When to See a Doctor 

Most baby constipation resolves on its own, but seek medical advice if: 

• Your baby hasn’t pooped for over a week 

• Stools are hard, bloody, or black 

• Your baby refuses to eat or has severe bloating 

• They seem very uncomfortable or in pain 

Lullabub Sleepers – Helping Parents Through Every Sleep Challenge 

Caring for a baby with constipation can be exhausting—especially when sleep is disrupted. But you don’t have to go through it alone! 

At Lullabub Sleepers, I offer personalized sleep training programs to help parents in Singapore restore healthy sleep habits—even when challenges like constipation, teething, or regressions arise. 

Need expert sleep guidance? Explore my one-on-one sleep coaching services and take the first step toward better sleep for your baby—and for yourself! 

Final Thoughts: Relief is on the Way 

Baby constipation can be uncomfortable, but it’s usually temporary. By making small adjustments, your baby’s digestion will improve, and they’ll sleep better too. If you’re struggling with sleep during this time, Lullabub Sleepers is here to support you. 

Ready to get your baby's sleep back on track? Let’s work together to create a gentle, effective sleep plan for your little one. 

FAQs 

How to relieve constipation in newborn babies? 

You can relieve constipation in newborns by massaging their tummy, doing bicycle leg exercises, and giving them a warm bath. If your baby is formula-fed, consider switching to a gentler formula. If constipation persists, consult your pediatrician. 

How common is constipation in Singapore? 

Baby constipation is relatively common in Singapore, especially among formula-fed babies and those transitioning to solids. The hot climate also increases the risk of dehydration, which can contribute to constipation. 

How to relieve constipation in Singapore?

In Singapore, parents can relieve baby constipation by offering more fluids (if age-appropriate), giving fiber-rich foods (for older babies), and doing tummy massages. Pediatricians may also recommend probiotics or mild laxatives in severe cases. 

What can I eat if my newborn is constipated?

If you’re breastfeeding, eating more fiber-rich foods like prunes, pears, papayas, and whole grains may help soften your baby’s stools. Staying well-hydrated can also aid digestion. .

How long can a newborn go without pooping?

A breast-fed newborn can go up to 10 days without pooping, as breast milk is fully absorbed. Formula-fed babies usually poop every 1-3 days, and any gap longer than 5 days may indicate constipation. 

What positions help newborns poop?

The “bicycle” leg movement, holding the baby in a squat-like position, or gently pushing their knees toward their chest can help encourage bowel movements. 

Can I give my 2-week-old baby water for constipation?

No, babies under 6 months should not be given water unless directed by a doctor. Instead, adjusting feeding techniques or doing tummy massages can help relieve constipation. 

What exercises help babies poop? 

Bicycle leg movements, gently bending the knees toward the tummy, and tummy time help stimulate digestion and encourage bowel movements. 

What is a natural laxative for babies? 

For babies who have started solids, prunes, pears, papaya, and peaches are natural laxatives. For younger babies, tummy massages and warm baths can help relieve constipation. 

How to massage a baby’s tummy to poop?

Gently rub your baby’s belly in clockwise circular motions, starting near the belly button and moving outward. Another method is the “I Love U” massage, tracing the shape of the letters I, L, and U on the tummy. 

What milk is a natural laxative?

Breast milk acts as a natural laxative, helping soften stools in newborns. If formula-fed babies experience constipation, switching to a formula with partially hydrolyzed proteins may help. 

Why is my baby passing gas but not pooping? 

If your baby is passing gas but not pooping, it may be due to mild constipation, an immature digestive system, or slow digestion. If your baby is otherwise content and feeding well, it’s usually not a concern. 

Should I stop solids if my baby is constipated?

No, but you can adjust their diet by reducing constipating foods like rice cereal, bananas, and dairy, and increasing fiber-rich options like prunes, pears, and spinach.