How to help your baby poo: the best positions

Babies, especially newborns, can sometimes struggle to have a bowel movement. This can be due to various reasons such as diet or a period of adjustment to their new digestive system. For parents, it is essential to know how to help their little ones when they encounter difficulties in this area. In this article, we explore different positions for helping your baby poo, in order to make this experience more comfortable for you and your child.

I. Signs that your baby needs help having a bowel movement

1. Excessive wind and crying

If your baby seems to be suffering from wind and cries a great deal for no apparent reason, this could indicate that they are having trouble with their bowel movements.

2. Restlessness and disturbed sleep

Another possible sign is if your child seems irritable and is sleeping less well than usual, as they may be uncomfortable due to intestinal discomfort.

3. Hard and distended tummy

Finally, a hard and swollen tummy can also be an indicator that your baby is having difficulty passing stools.

II. Different positions for helping your baby poo

1. The "cuddle" position

This position facilitates intestinal movement by gently pressing on your baby's tummy. To do this, hold your baby in your arms, placing their head on your shoulder and giving them a gentle cuddle. Make sure their tummy is in contact with yours so that they feel a gentle abdominal pressure.

2. The lying-on-the-back position

Lay your child on their back, keeping one hand on their tummy to give them some gentle circular strokes. Then bend their knees towards their chest whilst maintaining a slight pressure on both the hips and thighs. This position can help to trigger a bowel movement.

3. Using an exercise ball

If you have an exercise ball at home, you can use it to help your baby safely with this effective method. Sit on the ball with your child sitting snugly against your tummy. Then gently bounce on the ball for a few minutes. The movement and pressure applied to the tummy can help to relax the intestines and encourage a bowel movement.

4. The frog position

In this natural posture, place your baby on their back, then bring their legs towards their body so that their feet are together with their knees splayed outwards, like a "frog". You can also opt for the reclining position, by placing your baby on a feeding cushion or on your lap.

III. Some additional tips for making it easier for your baby to pass stools

1. Tummy massage

Giving your child a gentle tummy massage can help them to relax and stimulate the intestines. Apply gentle pressure with your fingers and make circular movements in a clockwise direction.

2. Changing their diet

If this is a dietary issue, do not hesitate to consult your paediatrician about a possible change to your baby's diet.

3. Warm bath

Placing your baby in a warm bath can also help to soothe and relax their abdominal muscles, thereby making it easier to pass stools.

A final word

Helping your baby to have a bowel movement is an essential step in ensuring the health and wellbeing of your infant. By knowing the different positions to adopt, the signs to watch out for, and a few additional tips, you will be able to handle these common situations easily and effectively. Remember that communication with your paediatrician remains paramount if you have questions, especially if you notice that the problems persist despite your efforts.