Constipation in children

Breastfeeding in the first 6 months of an infant's life will reduce the risk of dry, hard stools. While many breastfed babies may have stool intervals of several days, the stool consistency remains soft.

Parents should be advised to offer fruit and vegetable fibre and adequate fluid intake at the weaning stage.

Excessive milk intake in the 1- to 3-year-old age group should be avoided.

Exercise in older children should be encouraged.

Early intervention with effective treatment should occur in cases of mild constipation.