Getting Regular

Updated on June 12, 2008
M.S. asks from Swampscott, MA
7 answers

I know this is a personal matter, but I don't know who to ask other than all of you. My daughter will be 5 months next week and I am still having so much constipation? Should I call the Dr? Has this happened to anyone?

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M.B.

answers from Boston on

Megan you can go to the pharmacy and get colace (stool softener).. that is what my OB had given me after I gave birth with my daughter. I am pretty sure it is over the counter, if not call your doc and ask for a perscription. it is totally safe to take just in case you are breast feeding.
hoope you feel better soon!

M.

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W.D.

answers from Boston on

you can try Metamucil or Citrucel, they aren't like other laxatives - they actually help with both constipation and diarhea (sp?).. bulk up on fiber.. are you still taking prenatal vitamins? They have a lot of iron in them. try easing back off them.

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A.K.

answers from Boston on

1/4 ounce water mixed in with 1/4 ounce straight prune juice.

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J.A.

answers from Boston on

Hi M.,

You didn't say if you are working full-time, but, either way night work can be very hard on the system. What is your sleep schedule? Do you come home and care for your daughter during the day and then sleep from 4:00-9:00 or do you sleep when you get home and then spend time with your family? Either way you are probably getting only 5-6 hours of sleep. (not enough) If you are doing this full-time then you are going to be chronically sleep deprived. (as if having a new baby doesn't leave you sleep deprived enough!)

In order to be regular in your bowel habits, you will need to be regular with your schedule. In addition to optimizing your sleep habits, you should remain well hydrated and get lots of fiber. Obviously eating lots of fresh fruits and vegatables is the best way to do this. Also make sure the breads and cereals you are eating are whole grains. I simply make sure I have a bowl of raisin bran each morning and I'm covered.

It sounds like you do not have a regular schedule for sleep, work, excercise or diet. As hard as it is, try to find a balance between these, you will be healthier all around. I'm not too sure about the swampscott area, but there are new mommy groups everywhere. I would suggest you contact the hospital where you delivered to find out what resources they have. They most certainly will have some. Having social ties with other news moms is essential to your well being.

Best Wishes to you and your little girl.

J. L.

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M.M.

answers from Boston on

Hi M.,

I have a quick and natural way take a tablespoon of mineral oil and put it in your yogurt daily. Not only does it work it is so natural. My pediatrician rec for my little guy and I am a nutritiionist that can't believe how quick and easy it worked. Now I give it to my clients. Also try to eat some high fiber cereal everymorning, but remember if you eat healthy high fiber foods you have to drink enough water or you will be more constipated.
Good Luck
M.

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K.B.

answers from Dallas on

I was having the same problem! Be sure that you are hydrated, drink more water than you think may be necessary. Extra fiber will only make it worse if you aren't getting enough water. You can try stool softeners but I had been taking colace twice a day for months, and things actually got better when I stopped! It's also hard to have a "regular" schedule when taking care of a baby; you don't always have time to go when it's time to go, if you know what I mean! I think that the hydration is the most effective thing, though. Good luck!

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K.W.

answers from Boston on

Hi,
Have you tried putting a little Karo Syrup in her bottle. I spoke to someone who introduced no sugar prune juice in her daughter's bottle. Also, if she is starting to eat solids, try mashing up mangoes.

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