Constipation is unfortunately common in childhood and can be a recurring challenge for parents. It is often difficult to manage and may have several underlying causes.

Constipation is diagnosed when more than three days pass between bowel movements, stools are hard, and defecation requires straining, often accompanied by pain or discomfort. In infants, diagnosis is more difficult, as both frequent bowel movements and bowel movements every few days can be normal.

Causes of Constipation

A sedentary lifestyle, improper diet, certain medications, and even emotional factors can all contribute to constipation. In rare cases, structural or medical conditions may be responsible, making professional evaluation essential.

Most commonly, lifestyle factors are to blame: insufficient physical activity, low intake of fruits, vegetables, and quality dairy products, excessive consumption of sweets, and inadequate fluid intake.

Prevention Instead of Treatment

Medication should not be used for childhood constipation without medical supervision. If no physical or psychological cause is present, natural methods are preferred: prunes, vegetable dishes, fruits, increased water intake, and regular physical activity.

In recurrent cases related to diet, probiotic supplements containing beneficial gut bacteria may be useful. These bacteria naturally occur in the gut and contribute to healthy bowel function. Probiotics are best used preventively in treatment courses.