Massage techniques to relieve your baby's constipation

What you need to know about baby constipation

First, we must understand what constipation is and why it occurs. Constipation is a condition in which the stools are hard, difficult, or infrequent.

Colic or constipation in babies usually occurs during the first few months of their lives because they do not have enough maturity to digest food properly. However, this condition can persist into childhood if we do not take some measures to correct it.

Some of the most common causes of baby constipation include:

• Changes in your daughter or son's eating habits.

• Overeating can be another cause of constipation in babies.

• Colic, a condition that causes the baby to cry nonstop for hours, can also lead to constipation, and the crying itself makes it difficult for the baby to have a bowel movement.

Nevertheless, if the symptoms are persistent, it is always very important to consult your pediatrician.

Massages can help alleviate the symptoms of constipation in your baby

There are several causes of constipation, but what can you do to help relieve these symptoms? There are different types of massages that can help ease this discomfort, such as abdominal massage and foot massage. It is never too early to start giving your baby a massage.

Massages are an excellent way to comfort, calm, and relax babies, as well as help them develop the muscles in their bodies.

Next, we will share some simple techniques that you can incorporate into a daily routine.

Dragging massage

The dragging or stroking massage is a type of technique where you rub the baby's back and stomach with both hands, with one hand on the baby at a time. A stroking massage stimulates the baby's brain and helps them sleep better. It also gives them the opportunity to practice their motor skills and coordination. It may also help your baby gain weight by stimulating their stomach and intestines. The dragging massage is best for babies who are approximately 3 months old to 6 months old.

Clockwise massage

With the tummy facing up, massage your baby with the tips of your fingers making circles in a clockwise direction. Try to make gentle, slow movements for a few seconds, then stop for a moment and start again.

Massage with bent legs

Continue with the baby lying on their back, hold their ankles, and gently bend their legs until they touch their stomach. Pause for a few seconds in that position and repeat the process a couple more times.

Hands-free massage

There are several ways to massage your baby without using your hands. You can use a soft blanket to caress them, or you may try rolling them on the bed or holding them close to your chest so they can feel your body warmth. It is likely that all these techniques will help calm and comfort your baby.

Other natural tips for constipation

What foods are usually recommended

What your baby eats can affect their bowel movements. Constipation is a common problem for babies and is generally caused by a lack of fiber or fluids in their diet. The following are some examples of foods that can help ease a baby's constipation and promote regular bowel movements:

• Give your baby plenty of water.

• Watery and fiber-rich fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Whole grain cereals rich in fiber.

• Fruit juice with pulp (not just apple or pear juice)

• Dried plums in moderation (they are a natural laxative)

What foods are not recommended for constipation

Avoiding sugar and processed foods can also help the digestive system move faster, which will also result in less constipation for your baby. Other counterproductive foods include:

• White bread or pastries

• Apples

• White rice

• Pasta or noodles

• Potatoes

Exercises for babies that help the digestive system

Some simple exercises can help restore your baby's digestive system. One of the most effective exercises is to put them on their hands and knees and then rock them back and forth. You can try doing this for about 10 minutes to make it effective.

Additionally, it is advisable to try walking more with them or at least rocking them in a rocking chair. Swimming is also another good idea as it helps the abdominal muscles work better and stimulates their intestines.