Why babies cry during bowel movements

• Constipation: If your baby is struggling to pass stool or has hard, pellet-like poops, it can cause pain, gas, or lead to discomfort.

• Acidic stools: Food intolerances or sensitivities can lead to acidic stools, which may irritate your baby’s anus.

• Infant dyschezia: If your baby has difficulty coordinating the muscles needed for pooping, it can cause them to strain for 10 to 30 minutes before passing stool.

• Anal fissures: Small tears near the anus caused by straining, firm stools, or frequent stooling can make bowel movements painful for your baby.

• Diaper rash: A rash around your baby’s genital area can cause discomfort and pain during pooping.

How to help your baby if they cry during bowel movements:

If your baby is constipated:

• Gently rub your baby's abdomen to relax their muscles and stimulate bowel movements.

• Bicycle your baby's legs to activate the bowel muscles and promote a movement.

• A warm bath can help relax muscles and encourage bowel movements.

If your baby has infant dyschezia:

It usually resolves itself without treatment. Gentle abdominal massages and bicycling the legs can sometimes be helpful.

If your baby has gas:

• Use an anti-colic bottle or nipple to reduce air intake during feedings. If breastfeeding, ensure your baby has a secure latch to prevent them from swallowing too much air.

• Burp your baby once or twice during and after feeding to release trapped air

• Bicycle your baby’s legs to apply pressure and stimulate their bowels to release trapped gas.

• Tummy time encourages your baby to engage their core muscles, which can release gas.

• Infant massage relaxes the muscles required to release gas

• While research is limited on the impact of a mother’s breast milk on a baby’s gassy habits, it may be worthwhile to switch up your diet to identify if specific foods are making your baby uncomfortable.

When to call a doctor

If your baby is irritable and inconsolable, has blood or mucus in stools, fever, lethargy, vomiting, hasn't had a bowel movement in 5 to 7 days, isn’t feeding well, or has fewer wet diapers than usual, consult with your local or Summer Health pediatrician for guidance.