The number of times that children poo can range from 3 times a day to only twice a week. If your child has been constipated for a long time, they might poo in their pants without meaning to.
It might be a small or large amount of poo. This is called soiling or faecal incontinence. Constipation can happen when children hold poos in. They might hold poo in because they:. These situations can lead to a build-up of poo in the bowel.
When this happens, the poo gets too big or hard to push out easily. If you think your child is constipated, you should take your child to the GP if they:. Healthy bowel habits can help your child avoid constipation. These habits start with diet and toileting. Diet A healthy diet with enough fibre helps to prevent constipation. Foods that are high in fibre include wholegrain breads and cereals, fruit and vegetables. Toilet tips It can be easier for your child to do a poo if they sit on the toilet with their feet supported and their knees apart, while leaning slightly forward.
Young children often find this easier on a potty than an adult toilet. A child toilet seat can also help. Sitting on the toilet regularly can help with constipation. Try encouraging your child to sit on the toilet for minutes about minutes after eating breakfast, lunch and dinner.
A reward chart might also help. Laxatives are a type of medicine that help with emptying the bowels. Some children might need a laxative to pass hard poo without pain. Some children with chronic constipation will need to keep taking laxative medications for several months. Babies might be constipated if their poo is dry and crumbly or like pellets, or if doing a poo seems to cause them pain and discomfort. If you think your baby is constipated, see your GP or child and family health nurse.
