What are the characteristics and specific signs of constipation in newborns?

If the baby stays too long in the colon, excessive water absorption will occur, leading to overly dry feces and difficult bowel movements. If the baby's stool is dry, hard, and dark, it may indicate constipation. So, what are the characteristics of constipation in newborns? What are the special manifestations of constipation in newborns? Here are some:

1. Difficult Bowel Movements: Babies may take a long time to defecate, and the process can be more difficult and arduous. After each episode of blushing and ear warmth, they may pass only a small amount of dry and hard feces. When the baby still cannot defecate despite maximum effort, the mother may need to use a finger to help remove the feces.

2. Irritability: Problems such as abdominal bloating, poor bowel movements, and appetite loss caused by constipation can all make the baby feel uncomfortable and lead to irritability. Parents should pay attention to whether the baby has constipation at this time.

3. Dry and Hard Feces: Each baby has a different frequency of bowel movements, but as long as the stool is similar in softness and hardness to toothpaste, it is considered normal. However, once food stays in the body for too long, it gradually hardens due to water loss. Therefore, if you find that the baby's stool is dry and hard, it may indicate constipation.

4. Abdominal Bloating: When a baby has constipation, undigested food remains in the intestines, causing abdominal bloating and, in severe cases, abdominal pain. Additionally, bacteria in the feces decompose in the intestines, producing gas that forms flatulence, making the baby feel uncomfortable.

5. Poor Appetite: Poor appetite is a common feature of constipation in babies. Because food residue remains in the body, it slows down gastrointestinal motility, making the baby feel bloated and naturally unable to eat anything.

6. Digestive Problems: If feces stored in the intestines cannot be normally excreted, it will slow down the speed of gastrointestinal motility, indirectly affecting the baby's digestive system and leading to digestive problems.