Child Constipation
Constipation in Children
Constipation is a very common concern in infants, toddlers, and older children. While it can be uncomfortable and frustrating for both children and parents, constipation is usually manageable with the right guidance and support.
What Is Constipation?
Constipation occurs when bowel movements become infrequent, hard, painful, or difficult to pass. Some children may have stools every day and still be constipated, while others may go several days between bowel movements without a problem. What matters most is stool consistency, comfort, and your child’s overall symptoms.
Common Signs of Constipation
Children with constipation may experience:
- Hard, dry, or pebble-like stools
- Pain or straining with bowel movements
- Large stools that may clog the toilet
- Belly pain or bloating
- Stool withholding behaviors (crossing legs, hiding, standing stiffly)
- Accidental stool leakage or soiling
- Decreased appetite
Common Causes of Constipation
Constipation can have many causes, including:
- Diet low in fiber or fluids
- Changes in routine (travel, school, toilet training)
- Painful bowel movements leading to stool withholding
- Stress or anxiety
- Illness or dehydration
- Certain medications
What You Can Do at Home
Helpful steps at home may include:
- Encouraging water and fluid intake
- Offering fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Establishing regular toilet sitting times after meals
- Creating a calm, pressure-free bathroom routine
- Using a footstool so your child’s feet are supported on the toilet
Avoid using laxatives or enemas unless directed by your provider.
When to Call Us
Call our office if your child has:
- Ongoing constipation despite home changes
- Painful bowel movements or stool withholding
- Blood on the stool or toilet paper
- Belly pain that interferes with daily activities
- Accidents or stool leakage
- Constipation during toilet training
📞 Call (816) 792-1170 and select option 3.
When to Seek Urgent or Emergency Care
Seek urgent or emergency care if your child has:
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain
- Vomiting along with constipation
- Abdominal swelling or bloating that is not improving
- Unexplained weight loss
- Constipation in a newborn
How We Evaluate and Treat Constipation
Your provider will review your child’s symptoms, diet, toileting habits, and growth. Most childhood constipation is functional and not caused by an underlying disease. Treatment often includes a combination of dietary changes, behavior strategies, and medication when appropriate. Our goal is to help stools become soft and pain-free so your child can regain confidence using the bathroom.
Prevention Tips
To help prevent constipation:
- Encourage regular fluid intake
- Offer balanced meals with adequate fiber
- Promote regular bathroom routines
- Address constipation early before it becomes painful or chronic
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re concerned about your child’s bowel habits or constipation, we’re here to help.
Request an Appointment through our online form, or call our nurse triage line for guidance.
