AboutDavid Olson, MD Expertise I would be happy to attempt to answer any questions about general pediatric topics, either medical issues or behavioral issues. This would include all the various questions one receives in a busy pediatric practice. I`m a board certified pediatrician in northern Michigan and have been in practice for over 15 years. I enjoy the teaching role I have in our practice and would enjoy the opportunity to help others with their pediatric problems.
Expert: David Olson, MD Date: 3/23/2006 Subject: Newborn constipation
Question My baby will be 1 month old in 2 days. He is on Similac Isomil Advance Soy Formula, which he has been on since birth. Now he is constipated and hasn't had a bowel movement in 5 days. The pediatrician even called in a laxative which he has taken for 2 days and still hasn't went yet. Do you have any remedies or advice for this problem? He cries and screams in pain with his tummy a lot and I am so upset because I don't know what else to do.
Thanks.
Answer Hi, Courtney,
Are the stools hard or soft? If hard, then an extended course of daily softeners to retrain the bowel will be needed. I like prune juice diluted in water, 1:1, 1-2 oz per day. If they are soft, then some gentle rectal stimulation may be the answer.
If they are hard, daily use of a softener, not just when needed, is the answer.
