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Constipation

Breast-fed babies are rarely constipated, but bottle-fed babies will have firmer poo than a breast-fed baby. However, this may not be constipation, which is hard and pellet-like and is difficult or painful to pass. If your baby doesn't have a dirty nappy for a day or two and then has to strain really hard to do a poo, they are probably constipated. As the condition is usually caused by mild dehydration, a drink of cooled boiled water from a sterilised bottle between feeds should help.

If symptoms persist, or you are concerned about your baby, see your GP or Maternal Health Nurse for advice.