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+91 7026222222Copyright @ 2026. All Rights Reserved
+91 7026222222Copyright @ 2026. All Rights Reserved
+91 7026222222Copyright @ 2026. All Rights Reserved
+91 7026222222Copyright @ 2026. All Rights Reserved
Oct 21, 2026
|
2 min
A child who cries on the toilet, avoids going altogether, or complains of a tummy ache can leave any parent worried. Constipation in kids is one of the most common childhood health concerns, and in the vast majority of cases it is not caused by a serious illness. It can be uncomfortable, and when it is not treated early, it can become a repeating cycle that is harder to break. [1,2]
This guide explains why constipation occurs, the signs and symptoms of constipation in children, which diet and home care measures help, the role of medicines, and when to worry and see a paediatrician.
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or passing stools that are hard, dry and painful. There is no single "normal" number of bowel movements, as it varies with age and diet. As a general guide, fewer than three bowel movements a week, or stools that are hard or painful to pass, suggest constipation. [1,2]
Breastfed babies may normally pass stools very often, or go several days between stools while still passing soft stools without discomfort. What matters is whether the stool is hard and whether the child is in discomfort.
If you are wondering why constipation occurs in children, the cause is usually functional, which means there is no underlying disease. The most common reasons are:
• Holding back stool: A child who has had a painful bowel movement may start to avoid going, out of fear of the pain. The stool then stays in the bowel, gets harder and drier, and the next one hurts even more. This is the most common cycle behind long-lasting constipation. [1,2]
• Low fibre intake: Diets high in refined foods, packaged snacks and white bread, and low in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Not drinking enough fluids: This makes stools harder.
• Too much milk or dairy: Large amounts of milk or cheese can contribute in some children.
• Changes in routine or diet: Starting solid foods, switching from breast milk to formula or cow's milk, toilet training, starting school or travelling.
• Ignoring the urge to go: Children may hold on because they are busy playing, or dislike using toilets at school or away from home.
• Stress and emotional factors: Changes at home or school, or toilet-training pressure.
• Medicines: Some medicines can cause constipation.
• Medical conditions (uncommon): Rarely, constipation is linked to conditions such as an underactive thyroid, coeliac disease, problems with the nerves or the structure of the bowel, or cow's milk allergy. [1,2,3]
The signs and symptoms of constipation can be easy to miss, especially in young children who cannot explain how they feel. Look out for:
• Fewer than three bowel movements a week
• Hard, dry, pellet-like or very large stools
• Straining, crying or pain when passing stool
• Stomach pain, cramps or a swollen tummy
• Streaks of blood on the stool or tissue, usually from a small tear around the anus (anal fissure)
• Poor appetite, or feeling full quickly
• Withholding behaviour: crossing legs, clenching buttocks, hiding, or rocking when the urge comes
• Streaks or stains of liquid stool in the underwear (soiling), which can happen when softer stool leaks around hard stool stuck in the bowel. It is not deliberate, and is a sign that needs medical advice. [1,2]
Most constipation is not serious, but see a doctor promptly if your child has any of the following. This is when to worry with constipation in children:
• Constipation lasting more than 2 weeks, or that keeps coming back
• Constipation that began in early infancy, or a newborn who did not pass the first stool within 48 hours of birth
• Severe or worsening stomach pain, a swollen, hard tummy, or repeated vomiting (especially green vomit)
• Blood in the stool that is more than a streak, or black stool
• Fever along with constipation
• Poor weight gain, weight loss or poor appetite
• Soiling, or a child who is very afraid of going to the toilet
• Painful tears around the anus, or swelling or bulging at the anus
• Weakness in the legs, or any other unusual symptoms
• No improvement despite diet and home care [1,2,3]
Seek urgent care if your child has severe pain, a very swollen abdomen or repeated vomiting.
The treatment of constipation in children usually combines diet, habits and, when needed, medicines advised by a doctor. [1,2]
Increase fibre gradually and keep it in the usual family meals. Good choices include:
• Fruits such as papaya, ripe banana, pear, guava, apple (with the skin), orange and prunes
• Vegetables such as spinach, carrot, beans, peas and pumpkin
• Whole grains such as whole wheat chapati, oats, ragi, brown rice and whole grain cereals
• Dal, pulses and legumes
Unripe bananas can worsen constipation, so offer ripe ones.
Encourage regular water through the day. For babies who have started solids, small sips of water between feeds are fine, but check with your paediatrician for the right amount for your child's age.
• Ask your child to sit on the toilet for about 5 to 10 minutes after meals, when the bowel is most active, at around the same time every day.
• Use a footstool so that the knees are slightly higher than the hips, which makes passing stool easier.
• Keep it relaxed and pressure-free. Praise effort and sitting, not only success. Do not punish or shame accidents.
Play and movement help the bowel work. Encourage active play every day.
If your child has a small tear around the anus, the doctor may suggest soothing treatment while it heals, so that passing stools stops being painful.
When diet and habit changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe medicines. Parents often ask about constipation medicine for kids, so here are the key points:
• Stool softeners and laxatives are used when needed, and a common first-line option is an osmotic laxative, which draws water into the stool and softens it. Doctors may use these for weeks or months, to break the cycle of painful stools and let the bowel recover. [1,2]
• The right medicine and dose depend on the child's age, weight and the cause. Always use the medicine your paediatrician prescribes, and for as long as they advise.
• Do not stop too early. Stopping a medicine as soon as stools soften is a common reason for constipation to return.
• Do not give laxatives, suppositories or enemas without medical advice, and never use adult laxatives, or home remedies such as oils or herbal mixes, for infants and young children.
• Seek advice for infants, as constipation in babies needs a doctor's guidance before any medicine or home remedy is tried. [1,2]
• Offer a balanced diet with fibre at every meal, and limit refined snacks, chips and sweets.
• Make water a regular habit.
• Do not delay when your child wants to go, and make school and public toilets less intimidating.
• Maintain a regular toilet routine, with a relaxed, positive approach.
• Keep your child active.
• Treat constipation early. Do not wait for it to become long-lasting.
Also Read - Child Fever: When to See a Doctor & Warning Signs
Child Immunization Schedule in India Vaccines by Age & Dosage
Look for hard, dry or painful stools, fewer than three bowel movements a week, tummy pain, straining, withholding behaviour or blood streaks on the stool. [1,2]
Yes. It often starts around toilet training, when children begin to hold on to stool, or when they change from milk to solid foods. [1,2]
Yes. Constipation is one of the most common causes of recurring stomach pain in children. [1,2]
When hard stool collects in the bowel, softer stool can leak around it without the child feeling it. This is not deliberate and is a sign to see your paediatrician. [1,2]
Not without medical advice. Use only what your paediatrician prescribes, and never adult medicines. [1,2]
Excess milk or dairy can contribute in some children, particularly if it replaces fibre-rich food. If you suspect it, speak with your paediatrician before changing your child's diet. [2]
Many children do improve, particularly with good habits and early treatment. Some children need treatment for several months, so patience and follow-up are important. [1,2]
Constipation in children is common, and it responds well to early treatment. Fibre, fluids, a regular toilet routine and a calm, supportive approach go a long way. If it is long-lasting, painful or comes with warning signs, do not wait.
At Narayana One Health, our paediatricians can find the cause of your child's constipation and guide you on safe, effective treatment.
Concerned about your child's constipation? Book a consultation with our paediatrics team today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Treatment of constipation in children, including medicines and doses, should be guided by a qualified paediatrician. Consult your child's doctor for personalised guidance.
• Mayo Clinic. Constipation in Children: Symptoms and Causes. Read the Mayo Clinic information
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Constipation in Children. Read the NIDDK information
• HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics). Constipation in Children. Read the AAP information
Oct 21, 2026
|
2 min
A child who cries on the toilet, avoids going altogether, or complains of a tummy ache can leave any parent worried. Constipation in kids is one of the most common childhood health concerns, and in the vast majority of cases it is not caused by a serious illness. It can be uncomfortable, and when it is not treated early, it can become a repeating cycle that is harder to break. [1,2]
This guide explains why constipation occurs, the signs and symptoms of constipation in children, which diet and home care measures help, the role of medicines, and when to worry and see a paediatrician.
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or passing stools that are hard, dry and painful. There is no single "normal" number of bowel movements, as it varies with age and diet. As a general guide, fewer than three bowel movements a week, or stools that are hard or painful to pass, suggest constipation. [1,2]
Breastfed babies may normally pass stools very often, or go several days between stools while still passing soft stools without discomfort. What matters is whether the stool is hard and whether the child is in discomfort.
If you are wondering why constipation occurs in children, the cause is usually functional, which means there is no underlying disease. The most common reasons are:
• Holding back stool: A child who has had a painful bowel movement may start to avoid going, out of fear of the pain. The stool then stays in the bowel, gets harder and drier, and the next one hurts even more. This is the most common cycle behind long-lasting constipation. [1,2]
• Low fibre intake: Diets high in refined foods, packaged snacks and white bread, and low in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Not drinking enough fluids: This makes stools harder.
• Too much milk or dairy: Large amounts of milk or cheese can contribute in some children.
• Changes in routine or diet: Starting solid foods, switching from breast milk to formula or cow's milk, toilet training, starting school or travelling.
• Ignoring the urge to go: Children may hold on because they are busy playing, or dislike using toilets at school or away from home.
• Stress and emotional factors: Changes at home or school, or toilet-training pressure.
• Medicines: Some medicines can cause constipation.
• Medical conditions (uncommon): Rarely, constipation is linked to conditions such as an underactive thyroid, coeliac disease, problems with the nerves or the structure of the bowel, or cow's milk allergy. [1,2,3]
The signs and symptoms of constipation can be easy to miss, especially in young children who cannot explain how they feel. Look out for:
• Fewer than three bowel movements a week
• Hard, dry, pellet-like or very large stools
• Straining, crying or pain when passing stool
• Stomach pain, cramps or a swollen tummy
• Streaks of blood on the stool or tissue, usually from a small tear around the anus (anal fissure)
• Poor appetite, or feeling full quickly
• Withholding behaviour: crossing legs, clenching buttocks, hiding, or rocking when the urge comes
• Streaks or stains of liquid stool in the underwear (soiling), which can happen when softer stool leaks around hard stool stuck in the bowel. It is not deliberate, and is a sign that needs medical advice. [1,2]
Most constipation is not serious, but see a doctor promptly if your child has any of the following. This is when to worry with constipation in children:
• Constipation lasting more than 2 weeks, or that keeps coming back
• Constipation that began in early infancy, or a newborn who did not pass the first stool within 48 hours of birth
• Severe or worsening stomach pain, a swollen, hard tummy, or repeated vomiting (especially green vomit)
• Blood in the stool that is more than a streak, or black stool
• Fever along with constipation
• Poor weight gain, weight loss or poor appetite
• Soiling, or a child who is very afraid of going to the toilet
• Painful tears around the anus, or swelling or bulging at the anus
• Weakness in the legs, or any other unusual symptoms
• No improvement despite diet and home care [1,2,3]
Seek urgent care if your child has severe pain, a very swollen abdomen or repeated vomiting.
The treatment of constipation in children usually combines diet, habits and, when needed, medicines advised by a doctor. [1,2]
Increase fibre gradually and keep it in the usual family meals. Good choices include:
• Fruits such as papaya, ripe banana, pear, guava, apple (with the skin), orange and prunes
• Vegetables such as spinach, carrot, beans, peas and pumpkin
• Whole grains such as whole wheat chapati, oats, ragi, brown rice and whole grain cereals
• Dal, pulses and legumes
Unripe bananas can worsen constipation, so offer ripe ones.
Encourage regular water through the day. For babies who have started solids, small sips of water between feeds are fine, but check with your paediatrician for the right amount for your child's age.
• Ask your child to sit on the toilet for about 5 to 10 minutes after meals, when the bowel is most active, at around the same time every day.
• Use a footstool so that the knees are slightly higher than the hips, which makes passing stool easier.
• Keep it relaxed and pressure-free. Praise effort and sitting, not only success. Do not punish or shame accidents.
Play and movement help the bowel work. Encourage active play every day.
If your child has a small tear around the anus, the doctor may suggest soothing treatment while it heals, so that passing stools stops being painful.
When diet and habit changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe medicines. Parents often ask about constipation medicine for kids, so here are the key points:
• Stool softeners and laxatives are used when needed, and a common first-line option is an osmotic laxative, which draws water into the stool and softens it. Doctors may use these for weeks or months, to break the cycle of painful stools and let the bowel recover. [1,2]
• The right medicine and dose depend on the child's age, weight and the cause. Always use the medicine your paediatrician prescribes, and for as long as they advise.
• Do not stop too early. Stopping a medicine as soon as stools soften is a common reason for constipation to return.
• Do not give laxatives, suppositories or enemas without medical advice, and never use adult laxatives, or home remedies such as oils or herbal mixes, for infants and young children.
• Seek advice for infants, as constipation in babies needs a doctor's guidance before any medicine or home remedy is tried. [1,2]
• Offer a balanced diet with fibre at every meal, and limit refined snacks, chips and sweets.
• Make water a regular habit.
• Do not delay when your child wants to go, and make school and public toilets less intimidating.
• Maintain a regular toilet routine, with a relaxed, positive approach.
• Keep your child active.
• Treat constipation early. Do not wait for it to become long-lasting.
Also Read - Child Fever: When to See a Doctor & Warning Signs
Child Immunization Schedule in India Vaccines by Age & Dosage
Look for hard, dry or painful stools, fewer than three bowel movements a week, tummy pain, straining, withholding behaviour or blood streaks on the stool. [1,2]
Yes. It often starts around toilet training, when children begin to hold on to stool, or when they change from milk to solid foods. [1,2]
Yes. Constipation is one of the most common causes of recurring stomach pain in children. [1,2]
When hard stool collects in the bowel, softer stool can leak around it without the child feeling it. This is not deliberate and is a sign to see your paediatrician. [1,2]
Not without medical advice. Use only what your paediatrician prescribes, and never adult medicines. [1,2]
Excess milk or dairy can contribute in some children, particularly if it replaces fibre-rich food. If you suspect it, speak with your paediatrician before changing your child's diet. [2]
Many children do improve, particularly with good habits and early treatment. Some children need treatment for several months, so patience and follow-up are important. [1,2]
Constipation in children is common, and it responds well to early treatment. Fibre, fluids, a regular toilet routine and a calm, supportive approach go a long way. If it is long-lasting, painful or comes with warning signs, do not wait.
At Narayana One Health, our paediatricians can find the cause of your child's constipation and guide you on safe, effective treatment.
Concerned about your child's constipation? Book a consultation with our paediatrics team today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Treatment of constipation in children, including medicines and doses, should be guided by a qualified paediatrician. Consult your child's doctor for personalised guidance.
• Mayo Clinic. Constipation in Children: Symptoms and Causes. Read the Mayo Clinic information
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Constipation in Children. Read the NIDDK information
• HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics). Constipation in Children. Read the AAP information
Oct 21, 2026
|
2 min
A child who cries on the toilet, avoids going altogether, or complains of a tummy ache can leave any parent worried. Constipation in kids is one of the most common childhood health concerns, and in the vast majority of cases it is not caused by a serious illness. It can be uncomfortable, and when it is not treated early, it can become a repeating cycle that is harder to break. [1,2]
This guide explains why constipation occurs, the signs and symptoms of constipation in children, which diet and home care measures help, the role of medicines, and when to worry and see a paediatrician.
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or passing stools that are hard, dry and painful. There is no single "normal" number of bowel movements, as it varies with age and diet. As a general guide, fewer than three bowel movements a week, or stools that are hard or painful to pass, suggest constipation. [1,2]
Breastfed babies may normally pass stools very often, or go several days between stools while still passing soft stools without discomfort. What matters is whether the stool is hard and whether the child is in discomfort.
If you are wondering why constipation occurs in children, the cause is usually functional, which means there is no underlying disease. The most common reasons are:
• Holding back stool: A child who has had a painful bowel movement may start to avoid going, out of fear of the pain. The stool then stays in the bowel, gets harder and drier, and the next one hurts even more. This is the most common cycle behind long-lasting constipation. [1,2]
• Low fibre intake: Diets high in refined foods, packaged snacks and white bread, and low in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Not drinking enough fluids: This makes stools harder.
• Too much milk or dairy: Large amounts of milk or cheese can contribute in some children.
• Changes in routine or diet: Starting solid foods, switching from breast milk to formula or cow's milk, toilet training, starting school or travelling.
• Ignoring the urge to go: Children may hold on because they are busy playing, or dislike using toilets at school or away from home.
• Stress and emotional factors: Changes at home or school, or toilet-training pressure.
• Medicines: Some medicines can cause constipation.
• Medical conditions (uncommon): Rarely, constipation is linked to conditions such as an underactive thyroid, coeliac disease, problems with the nerves or the structure of the bowel, or cow's milk allergy. [1,2,3]
The signs and symptoms of constipation can be easy to miss, especially in young children who cannot explain how they feel. Look out for:
• Fewer than three bowel movements a week
• Hard, dry, pellet-like or very large stools
• Straining, crying or pain when passing stool
• Stomach pain, cramps or a swollen tummy
• Streaks of blood on the stool or tissue, usually from a small tear around the anus (anal fissure)
• Poor appetite, or feeling full quickly
• Withholding behaviour: crossing legs, clenching buttocks, hiding, or rocking when the urge comes
• Streaks or stains of liquid stool in the underwear (soiling), which can happen when softer stool leaks around hard stool stuck in the bowel. It is not deliberate, and is a sign that needs medical advice. [1,2]
Most constipation is not serious, but see a doctor promptly if your child has any of the following. This is when to worry with constipation in children:
• Constipation lasting more than 2 weeks, or that keeps coming back
• Constipation that began in early infancy, or a newborn who did not pass the first stool within 48 hours of birth
• Severe or worsening stomach pain, a swollen, hard tummy, or repeated vomiting (especially green vomit)
• Blood in the stool that is more than a streak, or black stool
• Fever along with constipation
• Poor weight gain, weight loss or poor appetite
• Soiling, or a child who is very afraid of going to the toilet
• Painful tears around the anus, or swelling or bulging at the anus
• Weakness in the legs, or any other unusual symptoms
• No improvement despite diet and home care [1,2,3]
Seek urgent care if your child has severe pain, a very swollen abdomen or repeated vomiting.
The treatment of constipation in children usually combines diet, habits and, when needed, medicines advised by a doctor. [1,2]
Increase fibre gradually and keep it in the usual family meals. Good choices include:
• Fruits such as papaya, ripe banana, pear, guava, apple (with the skin), orange and prunes
• Vegetables such as spinach, carrot, beans, peas and pumpkin
• Whole grains such as whole wheat chapati, oats, ragi, brown rice and whole grain cereals
• Dal, pulses and legumes
Unripe bananas can worsen constipation, so offer ripe ones.
Encourage regular water through the day. For babies who have started solids, small sips of water between feeds are fine, but check with your paediatrician for the right amount for your child's age.
• Ask your child to sit on the toilet for about 5 to 10 minutes after meals, when the bowel is most active, at around the same time every day.
• Use a footstool so that the knees are slightly higher than the hips, which makes passing stool easier.
• Keep it relaxed and pressure-free. Praise effort and sitting, not only success. Do not punish or shame accidents.
Play and movement help the bowel work. Encourage active play every day.
If your child has a small tear around the anus, the doctor may suggest soothing treatment while it heals, so that passing stools stops being painful.
When diet and habit changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe medicines. Parents often ask about constipation medicine for kids, so here are the key points:
• Stool softeners and laxatives are used when needed, and a common first-line option is an osmotic laxative, which draws water into the stool and softens it. Doctors may use these for weeks or months, to break the cycle of painful stools and let the bowel recover. [1,2]
• The right medicine and dose depend on the child's age, weight and the cause. Always use the medicine your paediatrician prescribes, and for as long as they advise.
• Do not stop too early. Stopping a medicine as soon as stools soften is a common reason for constipation to return.
• Do not give laxatives, suppositories or enemas without medical advice, and never use adult laxatives, or home remedies such as oils or herbal mixes, for infants and young children.
• Seek advice for infants, as constipation in babies needs a doctor's guidance before any medicine or home remedy is tried. [1,2]
• Offer a balanced diet with fibre at every meal, and limit refined snacks, chips and sweets.
• Make water a regular habit.
• Do not delay when your child wants to go, and make school and public toilets less intimidating.
• Maintain a regular toilet routine, with a relaxed, positive approach.
• Keep your child active.
• Treat constipation early. Do not wait for it to become long-lasting.
Also Read - Child Fever: When to See a Doctor & Warning Signs
Child Immunization Schedule in India Vaccines by Age & Dosage
Look for hard, dry or painful stools, fewer than three bowel movements a week, tummy pain, straining, withholding behaviour or blood streaks on the stool. [1,2]
Yes. It often starts around toilet training, when children begin to hold on to stool, or when they change from milk to solid foods. [1,2]
Yes. Constipation is one of the most common causes of recurring stomach pain in children. [1,2]
When hard stool collects in the bowel, softer stool can leak around it without the child feeling it. This is not deliberate and is a sign to see your paediatrician. [1,2]
Not without medical advice. Use only what your paediatrician prescribes, and never adult medicines. [1,2]
Excess milk or dairy can contribute in some children, particularly if it replaces fibre-rich food. If you suspect it, speak with your paediatrician before changing your child's diet. [2]
Many children do improve, particularly with good habits and early treatment. Some children need treatment for several months, so patience and follow-up are important. [1,2]
Constipation in children is common, and it responds well to early treatment. Fibre, fluids, a regular toilet routine and a calm, supportive approach go a long way. If it is long-lasting, painful or comes with warning signs, do not wait.
At Narayana One Health, our paediatricians can find the cause of your child's constipation and guide you on safe, effective treatment.
Concerned about your child's constipation? Book a consultation with our paediatrics team today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Treatment of constipation in children, including medicines and doses, should be guided by a qualified paediatrician. Consult your child's doctor for personalised guidance.
• Mayo Clinic. Constipation in Children: Symptoms and Causes. Read the Mayo Clinic information
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Constipation in Children. Read the NIDDK information
• HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics). Constipation in Children. Read the AAP information
Oct 21, 2026
|
2 min
A child who cries on the toilet, avoids going altogether, or complains of a tummy ache can leave any parent worried. Constipation in kids is one of the most common childhood health concerns, and in the vast majority of cases it is not caused by a serious illness. It can be uncomfortable, and when it is not treated early, it can become a repeating cycle that is harder to break. [1,2]
This guide explains why constipation occurs, the signs and symptoms of constipation in children, which diet and home care measures help, the role of medicines, and when to worry and see a paediatrician.
Constipation means passing stools less often than usual, or passing stools that are hard, dry and painful. There is no single "normal" number of bowel movements, as it varies with age and diet. As a general guide, fewer than three bowel movements a week, or stools that are hard or painful to pass, suggest constipation. [1,2]
Breastfed babies may normally pass stools very often, or go several days between stools while still passing soft stools without discomfort. What matters is whether the stool is hard and whether the child is in discomfort.
If you are wondering why constipation occurs in children, the cause is usually functional, which means there is no underlying disease. The most common reasons are:
• Holding back stool: A child who has had a painful bowel movement may start to avoid going, out of fear of the pain. The stool then stays in the bowel, gets harder and drier, and the next one hurts even more. This is the most common cycle behind long-lasting constipation. [1,2]
• Low fibre intake: Diets high in refined foods, packaged snacks and white bread, and low in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
• Not drinking enough fluids: This makes stools harder.
• Too much milk or dairy: Large amounts of milk or cheese can contribute in some children.
• Changes in routine or diet: Starting solid foods, switching from breast milk to formula or cow's milk, toilet training, starting school or travelling.
• Ignoring the urge to go: Children may hold on because they are busy playing, or dislike using toilets at school or away from home.
• Stress and emotional factors: Changes at home or school, or toilet-training pressure.
• Medicines: Some medicines can cause constipation.
• Medical conditions (uncommon): Rarely, constipation is linked to conditions such as an underactive thyroid, coeliac disease, problems with the nerves or the structure of the bowel, or cow's milk allergy. [1,2,3]
The signs and symptoms of constipation can be easy to miss, especially in young children who cannot explain how they feel. Look out for:
• Fewer than three bowel movements a week
• Hard, dry, pellet-like or very large stools
• Straining, crying or pain when passing stool
• Stomach pain, cramps or a swollen tummy
• Streaks of blood on the stool or tissue, usually from a small tear around the anus (anal fissure)
• Poor appetite, or feeling full quickly
• Withholding behaviour: crossing legs, clenching buttocks, hiding, or rocking when the urge comes
• Streaks or stains of liquid stool in the underwear (soiling), which can happen when softer stool leaks around hard stool stuck in the bowel. It is not deliberate, and is a sign that needs medical advice. [1,2]
Most constipation is not serious, but see a doctor promptly if your child has any of the following. This is when to worry with constipation in children:
• Constipation lasting more than 2 weeks, or that keeps coming back
• Constipation that began in early infancy, or a newborn who did not pass the first stool within 48 hours of birth
• Severe or worsening stomach pain, a swollen, hard tummy, or repeated vomiting (especially green vomit)
• Blood in the stool that is more than a streak, or black stool
• Fever along with constipation
• Poor weight gain, weight loss or poor appetite
• Soiling, or a child who is very afraid of going to the toilet
• Painful tears around the anus, or swelling or bulging at the anus
• Weakness in the legs, or any other unusual symptoms
• No improvement despite diet and home care [1,2,3]
Seek urgent care if your child has severe pain, a very swollen abdomen or repeated vomiting.
The treatment of constipation in children usually combines diet, habits and, when needed, medicines advised by a doctor. [1,2]
Increase fibre gradually and keep it in the usual family meals. Good choices include:
• Fruits such as papaya, ripe banana, pear, guava, apple (with the skin), orange and prunes
• Vegetables such as spinach, carrot, beans, peas and pumpkin
• Whole grains such as whole wheat chapati, oats, ragi, brown rice and whole grain cereals
• Dal, pulses and legumes
Unripe bananas can worsen constipation, so offer ripe ones.
Encourage regular water through the day. For babies who have started solids, small sips of water between feeds are fine, but check with your paediatrician for the right amount for your child's age.
• Ask your child to sit on the toilet for about 5 to 10 minutes after meals, when the bowel is most active, at around the same time every day.
• Use a footstool so that the knees are slightly higher than the hips, which makes passing stool easier.
• Keep it relaxed and pressure-free. Praise effort and sitting, not only success. Do not punish or shame accidents.
Play and movement help the bowel work. Encourage active play every day.
If your child has a small tear around the anus, the doctor may suggest soothing treatment while it heals, so that passing stools stops being painful.
When diet and habit changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe medicines. Parents often ask about constipation medicine for kids, so here are the key points:
• Stool softeners and laxatives are used when needed, and a common first-line option is an osmotic laxative, which draws water into the stool and softens it. Doctors may use these for weeks or months, to break the cycle of painful stools and let the bowel recover. [1,2]
• The right medicine and dose depend on the child's age, weight and the cause. Always use the medicine your paediatrician prescribes, and for as long as they advise.
• Do not stop too early. Stopping a medicine as soon as stools soften is a common reason for constipation to return.
• Do not give laxatives, suppositories or enemas without medical advice, and never use adult laxatives, or home remedies such as oils or herbal mixes, for infants and young children.
• Seek advice for infants, as constipation in babies needs a doctor's guidance before any medicine or home remedy is tried. [1,2]
• Offer a balanced diet with fibre at every meal, and limit refined snacks, chips and sweets.
• Make water a regular habit.
• Do not delay when your child wants to go, and make school and public toilets less intimidating.
• Maintain a regular toilet routine, with a relaxed, positive approach.
• Keep your child active.
• Treat constipation early. Do not wait for it to become long-lasting.
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Look for hard, dry or painful stools, fewer than three bowel movements a week, tummy pain, straining, withholding behaviour or blood streaks on the stool. [1,2]
Yes. It often starts around toilet training, when children begin to hold on to stool, or when they change from milk to solid foods. [1,2]
Yes. Constipation is one of the most common causes of recurring stomach pain in children. [1,2]
When hard stool collects in the bowel, softer stool can leak around it without the child feeling it. This is not deliberate and is a sign to see your paediatrician. [1,2]
Not without medical advice. Use only what your paediatrician prescribes, and never adult medicines. [1,2]
Excess milk or dairy can contribute in some children, particularly if it replaces fibre-rich food. If you suspect it, speak with your paediatrician before changing your child's diet. [2]
Many children do improve, particularly with good habits and early treatment. Some children need treatment for several months, so patience and follow-up are important. [1,2]
Constipation in children is common, and it responds well to early treatment. Fibre, fluids, a regular toilet routine and a calm, supportive approach go a long way. If it is long-lasting, painful or comes with warning signs, do not wait.
At Narayana One Health, our paediatricians can find the cause of your child's constipation and guide you on safe, effective treatment.
Concerned about your child's constipation? Book a consultation with our paediatrics team today.
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Treatment of constipation in children, including medicines and doses, should be guided by a qualified paediatrician. Consult your child's doctor for personalised guidance.
• Mayo Clinic. Constipation in Children: Symptoms and Causes. Read the Mayo Clinic information
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). Constipation in Children. Read the NIDDK information
• HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics). Constipation in Children. Read the AAP information