Although constipation in newborns can be very scary for parents, it’s a very common problem. One of the reasons it’s so scary is because it can be difficult to know how to treat it. Of course, you can’t simply add more fruits and vegetables to their diet because newborns don’t eat solid food. And taking medications of any kind is usually a huge no-no for newborns. So how can you help your tiny one out when they’re experiencing constipation? Here are 8 different ways!

Breastfeed

It’s no secret that breast milk is the best thing you can give your baby to eat. This is due to many reasons. Not only are there nutrients in breast milk that can’t be found in formula, but breast milk also contains many laxatives. These laxatives will go a very long way in helping loosen your baby’s stool. If you or your baby is having trouble breastfeeding try using a breast pump. These pumps can make it very easy to expel your milk, without needing the baby to be latched on.

Water

Water is always good for constipation, no matter the age. Water will also loosen the stool up and lubricate the area so that the waste can be excreted easily. For newborns, it’s especially important to make sure that you are only giving them water that has been boiled and cooled. This way you won’t need to worry about giving them harmful chemicals that can sometimes be found in tap water, such as chlorine.

Magnesium

Magnesium is an excellent all-natural laxative. To give your newborn magnesium, simply mix 1/16 of a tablespoon with water. Then place it into a bottle with breast milk or formula.

Abdominal Massage

Massages can do a great deal of good for newborn constipation. An abdominal massage will loosen the muscles to allow the stool to move around and eventually come out. To give your baby an abdominal massage, use small circular motions with your fingertips. Gently move your fingers from left to right and upwards then downwards. Abdominal massages can be done up to ten times a day.

Bath

Baths can work the same way as massages do. The soothing and warm water of the bath will also help to relax baby’s abdominal muscles. Plus, baths generally tend to calm newborns down once done. Simply becoming less stressed about it themselves can also help newborns with constipation.

Cycling

Turning your baby’s legs in a cycling motion can also help get things moving. To do this simply lay your baby on the floor with their backs flat against the surface. Pick your baby’s legs up and gently move them back and forth in a cycling motion. This can really help the stomach and the bowels to become looser and move, pushing the stool out.

Flax Oil

Flax oil is another all-natural solution that you can give to your newborn to relieve constipation. To administer the oil, simply place one teaspoon into their formula or breast milk. This can be done up to three times a day.

Change Formula

Sometimes no matter what you do, you just can’t help your newborn baby’s constipation. In babies that are formula fed, sometimes it’s just a simple matter of changing the formula. Many formulas are loaded with iron or other substances that can cause constipation. Try switching to a gentler formula. That might be all that’s needed!