Digestive

Common Causes of Constipation in Babies

Medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Chen, MD, FAAP · Board-Certified Pediatrician

Content reviewed against published AAP, NIH, AAP guidelines

Last reviewed: May 2026

Digestive issues are common in infants and toddlers. If your baby is experiencing common causes of constipation in babies, here is what you need to know.

The short answer

Key takeaways

Constipation in babies is defined by hard, difficult-to-pass stools rather than infrequent pooping. Common causes include the introduction of solid foods, switching from breast milk to formula, insufficient fluid intake, and certain foods like bananas, rice cereal, and dairy. True constipation is uncommon in exclusively breastfed babies. Most cases of infant constipation are easily resolved with dietary adjustments.
Usually normal when: Your breastfed baby goes several days between soft, easy-to-pass stools
Call your doctor if: Your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like Hirschsprung disease
Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below

“The biggest concern with vomiting is dehydration. Young children can become dehydrated quickly, so it's important to replace fluids. Offer small amounts of an oral rehydration solution frequently.”

— Vomiting in Children, American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)

This is one of the most common questions parents ask. Searching for answers means you care.

What Parents Should Know

According to AAP, NIH guidelines, constipation in babies is defined by hard, difficult-to-pass stools rather than infrequent pooping. Common causes include the introduction of solid foods, switching from breast milk to formula, insufficient fluid intake, and certain foods like bananas, rice cereal, and dairy. True constipation is uncommon in exclusively breastfed babies. Most cases of infant constipation are easily resolved with dietary adjustments. At 0-3 months, exclusively breastfed newborns rarely become truly constipated because breast milk is so well absorbed. It is normal for breastfed babies over 6 weeks to go days or even a week without a bowel movement as long as the stool is soft when it comes. Formula-fed babies may be more prone to harder stools. If your newborn is straining and producing hard pellets, consult your pediatrician rather than using home remedies at this young age. It is generally considered normal when your breastfed baby goes several days between soft, easy-to-pass stools. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like Hirschsprung disease.

Sources: [1], [2], [3]

Normal vs. Concerning

Usually Normal

Worth Discussing

Your breastfed baby goes several days between soft, easy-to-pass stools

Your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like Hirschsprung disease

Your baby grunts, turns red, or strains during a bowel movement but produces soft stool, which is called infant dyschezia and is normal

Your baby's abdomen is very distended and rigid, they are vomiting green bile, or they are in severe pain, which could indicate an obstruction

Stool consistency changes temporarily after introducing a new food and then returns to normal

You see large amounts of blood in the stool or your baby has a fever along with constipation

By Age

What to expect by age

0-3 months

Exclusively breastfed newborns rarely become truly constipated because breast milk is so well absorbed. It is normal for breastfed babies over 6 weeks to go days or even a week without a bowel movement as long as the stool is soft when it comes. Formula-fed babies may be more prone to harder stools. If your newborn is straining and producing hard pellets, consult your pediatrician rather than using home remedies at this young age.

3-6 months

Constipation may occur if formula is mixed incorrectly (too concentrated) or if there is a switch between formula brands. Some babies become constipated when transitioning from breast milk to formula. At this age, your pediatrician may recommend small amounts of water, prune juice, or pear juice to help soften stools. Never give laxatives or suppositories without medical guidance.

6-12 months

This is the most common time for constipation to first appear because of the introduction of solid foods. The digestive system needs time to adjust to new foods. Common constipation-causing foods include rice cereal, bananas, applesauce, and too much dairy. High-fiber foods like prunes, pears, peas, and oatmeal can help. Making sure your baby gets enough fluids alongside solids is also important.

12-24 months

Toddler constipation is very common, affecting up to 30% of children at some point. Causes include a diet heavy in dairy and processed foods, insufficient fiber and fluid intake, and sometimes stool withholding due to a previous painful bowel movement. Cow's milk introduction at age 1 is a frequent trigger. Ensuring adequate water intake, offering high-fiber foods, and maintaining physical activity all help prevent constipation.

What to Tell Your Pediatrician

Describe when you first noticed common causes of constipation in babies and how it has changed over time.
Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
Mention if your baby consistently passes hard, pellet-like stools that seem painful or cause crying.
Mention if your baby has not had a bowel movement in several days and seems uncomfortable, with a firm or distended belly.
Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

What Should You Do?

When to take action

Probably normal when...

Your breastfed baby goes several days between soft, easy-to-pass stools
Your baby grunts, turns red, or strains during a bowel movement but produces soft stool, which is called infant dyschezia and is normal
Stool consistency changes temporarily after introducing a new food and then returns to normal

Mention at your next visit when...

Your baby consistently passes hard, pellet-like stools that seem painful or cause crying
Your baby has not had a bowel movement in several days and seems uncomfortable, with a firm or distended belly
Constipation keeps recurring despite dietary changes, and you are looking for additional strategies
There are streaks of blood on hard stool or on the diaper, likely from a small anal fissure

Act now when...

Your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like Hirschsprung disease
Your baby's abdomen is very distended and rigid, they are vomiting green bile, or they are in severe pain, which could indicate an obstruction
You see large amounts of blood in the stool or your baby has a fever along with constipation

What You Can Do at Home

Keep track of when you notice common causes of constipation in babies — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
Remember that your breastfed baby goes several days between soft, easy-to-pass stools — this is generally within the range of normal.
At 0-3 months, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
Keep your baby upright for 20-30 minutes after feeding. Note any patterns between feeds and symptoms.
While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like Hirschsprung disease.

Guide

Poop Color & Texture Guide

What your baby's poop color and consistency mean, and when to worry.

Milestone

Month-by-Month Development

Detailed monthly development guides from birth through 24 months.

Guide

When to Call the Doctor

General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.

Frequently asked questions

Is common causes of constipation in babies normal?

When should I call the doctor about common causes of constipation in babies?

Your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like Hirschsprung disease Your baby's abdomen is very distended and rigid, they are vomiting green bile, or they are in severe pain, which could indicate an obstruction You see large amounts of blood in the stool or your baby has a fever along with constipation

When is common causes of constipation in babies normal?

Your breastfed baby goes several days between soft, easy-to-pass stools Your baby grunts, turns red, or strains during a bowel movement but produces soft stool, which is called infant dyschezia and is normal Stool consistency changes temporarily after introducing a new food and then returns to normal

What causes common causes of constipation in babies?

Constipation in babies is defined by hard, difficult-to-pass stools rather than infrequent pooping. Common causes include the introduction of solid foods, switching from breast milk to formula, insufficient fluid intake, and certain foods like bananas, rice cereal, and dairy. True constipation is uncommon in exclusively breastfed babies. Most cases of infant constipation are easily resolved with dietary adjustments. Common explanations include: Your breastfed baby goes several days between soft, easy-to-pass stools. Your baby grunts, turns red, or strains during a bowel movement but produces soft stool, which is called infant dyschezia and is normal.

What should I mention to my pediatrician about common causes of constipation in babies?

You should mention common causes of constipation in babies at your next visit if: Your baby consistently passes hard, pellet-like stools that seem painful or cause crying. Your baby has not had a bowel movement in several days and seems uncomfortable, with a firm or distended belly. Constipation keeps recurring despite dietary changes, and you are looking for additional strategies.

Is common causes of constipation in babies normal at 0-3 months?

Is common causes of constipation in babies normal at 3-6 months?

Should I go to the ER for common causes of constipation in babies?

Seek emergency care if your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like Hirschsprung disease, or if your baby's abdomen is very distended and rigid, they are vomiting green bile, or they are in severe pain, which could indicate an obstruction. When in doubt, call your pediatrician's after-hours line for guidance.

Does common causes of constipation in babies go away on its own?

In many cases, common causes of constipation in babies resolves on its own, especially when your breastfed baby goes several days between soft, easy-to-pass stools. By 12-24 months, toddler constipation is very common, affecting up to 30% of children at some point. Causes include a diet heavy in dairy and processed foods, insufficient fiber and fluid intake, and sometimes stool withholding due to a previous painful bowel movement. Cow's milk introduction at age 1 is a frequent trigger. Ensuring adequate water intake, offering high-fiber foods, and maintaining physical activity all help prevent constipation.

AAP NIH AAP

References

[1]American Academy of Pediatrics. Constipation in Children. HealthyChildren.org. AAP
[2]National Institutes of Health. Constipation in Infants and Children. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. NIH
[3]American Academy of Pediatrics. Baby's First Bowel Movements. HealthyChildren.org. AAP

Doctor Visit Checklist

Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Common Causes of Constipation in Babies.

Things to mention

Describe when you first noticed common causes of constipation in babies and how it has changed over time.
Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
Mention if your baby consistently passes hard, pellet-like stools that seem painful or cause crying.
Mention if your baby has not had a bowel movement in several days and seems uncomfortable, with a firm or distended belly.
Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.

Observations to share

Your baby consistently passes hard, pellet-like stools that seem painful or cause crying
Your baby has not had a bowel movement in several days and seems uncomfortable, with a firm or distended belly
Constipation keeps recurring despite dietary changes, and you are looking for additional strategies

Urgent signs to report immediately

Your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like Hirschsprung disease
Your baby's abdomen is very distended and rigid, they are vomiting green bile, or they are in severe pain, which could indicate an obstruction
You see large amounts of blood in the stool or your baby has a fever along with constipation

My notes

From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides

All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.

2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members

Poop Color Guide Constipation Triage Emergency Contacts Baby Tracker

Bottom line

Most cases of common causes of constipation in babies are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if your newborn under 4 weeks has not passed stool in more than 2-3 days, which could indicate a structural problem like hirschsprung disease.

Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.

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My Baby's Belly Looks Swollen

A rounded, slightly protruding belly is completely normal in babies and toddlers due to immature abdominal muscles and their proportionally larger organs. However, if the belly becomes suddenly swollen, feels hard and tight, or is accompanied by pain, vomiting, or changes in bowel movements, it needs medical evaluation as it could signal gas buildup, constipation, or rarely, something more serious.

My Baby Has an Anal Fissure (Blood When Pooping)

A small streak of bright red blood on the surface of your baby's stool or on the diaper is most commonly caused by an anal fissure, which is a tiny tear in the skin around the anus from passing hard stool. Anal fissures are very common in babies and toddlers and usually heal on their own with simple measures like keeping stools soft. While this is rarely serious, any blood in your baby's stool should be mentioned to your pediatrician.

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Bicycle legs is a simple, effective technique for helping babies pass trapped gas. Gently moving your baby's legs in a cycling motion pushes against the abdomen and helps gas move through the intestines. Combined with gentle belly massage and tummy time, it is one of the best non-medical approaches to gas relief in infants.