CONSTIPATION. WE KNOW ABOUT IT, WE’D RATHER NOT DEAL WITH IT AND MOST WOULDN’T EVEN LIKE TO DISCUSS IT. BUT IT HAPPENS, RIGHT? I’M SO EXCITED FOR YOU TO READ THE INFO BELOW FROM MY PASSION PARTNER TODAY ABOUT EXACTLY WHAT CONSTIPATION IS, HOW TO AVOID IT AND ESPECIALLY HOW TO HELP LITTLE ONES GET PAST IT.

THANKS SO MUCH FOR ALL OF YOUR EXPERT KNOWLEDGE, SAM!

Constipation is a condition in which there is difficulty in emptying the bowels, usually associated with hardened stools. Talking about poop is not always the most comfortable conversation in our circles or society. However, knowing how often and easy it comes out and what it looks like can determine if your child is constipated.

Frequency:

Pooping anywhere from 3x/week to 3x/day without laxatives is within the normal range. Bowel rhythms can vary from child to child.

Ease:

Once the urge presents itself, your child should be able to hold it in and not leak (aka fecal incontinence) until they get to the toilet. Once they sit down, all they need to do is relax and their body will eliminate the feces. Then, they wipe (from front to back) a few times and move on with their day. This entire process after they enter the bathroom usually takes 2 to 5 minutes.

Looks Like:

Healthy poop looks like # 4 and # 5 on the Bristol Stool Chart below. Are YOU lookin’ healthy?

If your child's bowel movements do not seem like the above explanations, a pediatric pelvic health physical therapist can help! Treatment looks like education on hydration, fiber intake, nervous system involvement, bowel anatomy and fears and trauma surrounding toileting. I teach stretches, fun exercises, specific daily habits and postures on the toilet and bowel massage to the patient and their parents/guardians.

BONUS: Many times constipation and late bedwetting go hand in hand. When constipation is managed, bedwetting can lessen as well!

DOES SOMETHING IN THIS POST RESONATE WITH YOU? DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS? REACH OUT TO DR. SAM DIRECTLY FOR A FREE CONSULT BY CLICKING HERE.