Infant Gas and Straining: Tips for Parents

Flatulence and straining during bowel movements?

My baby is currently 1 month and 20 days old.
He has a problem with colic, and every time he passes gas or has a bowel movement, he strains a lot.
He passes gas several times a day, and sometimes he strains so hard that he vomits the formula milk he just drank; in severe cases, it even comes out of his nose, and his face turns red.
I give him a probiotic every morning, mixing it into his formula, and I also massage his belly, but there hasn't been any improvement.
It’s hard to watch him strain so much, and when we went to the hospital, the doctor only prescribed us probiotics.

Li Xiaoyu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/20

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

If it is confirmed to be colicky abdominal pain (other issues, such as milk protein allergy, need to be ruled out), it is benign and will naturally improve after three months, without causing any long-term consequences.

Reply Date: 2016/03/20

More Info

Dealing with infant gas and straining can be a challenging experience for both parents and babies. It's common for infants, especially those around one month old, to experience gas and discomfort due to their developing digestive systems. Here are some insights and tips that may help alleviate your baby's discomfort and improve their overall well-being.

Understanding Infant Gas
Infants often swallow air while feeding, crying, or even during regular movements, which can lead to gas buildup in their intestines. This can cause discomfort and lead to straining during bowel movements. It's important to note that some degree of gas is normal, and most infants will outgrow excessive gas as their digestive systems mature.

Signs of Gas Discomfort
You mentioned that your baby strains significantly when passing gas or having a bowel movement, which is a common sign of gas discomfort. Other signs may include:
- Crying or fussiness, especially during or after feeding
- Clenching of fists or arching of the back
- A bloated or hard abdomen
- Difficulty sleeping or frequent waking

Tips for Managing Gas and Straining
1. Feeding Position: Ensure that your baby is in a proper feeding position. Keeping your baby upright during and after feedings can help reduce the amount of air swallowed.

2. Burping: Make sure to burp your baby frequently during and after feedings. This can help release any trapped air in the stomach. Try different burping positions, such as over your shoulder or sitting them on your lap.

3. Gentle Massage: You mentioned that you are already massaging your baby. Continue to do so, as gentle tummy massages can help stimulate digestion and relieve gas. You can try moving your hands in a circular motion on their abdomen or gently pushing their legs towards their tummy.

4. Bicycle Legs: While your baby is lying on their back, gently move their legs in a bicycle motion. This can help relieve gas and promote bowel movements.

5. Probiotics: Since you are already giving your baby probiotics, continue this practice. Probiotics can help balance the gut flora and improve digestion. However, consult with your pediatrician to ensure you are using the right type and dosage for your baby's age.

6. Dietary Considerations: If you are breastfeeding, consider your own diet. Certain foods can contribute to gas in breastfed infants, such as dairy, caffeine, and certain vegetables (like broccoli or beans). If your baby is formula-fed, consult your pediatrician about the formula you are using, as some formulas are easier on the stomach than others.

7. Warm Compress: Applying a warm compress to your baby's tummy can provide comfort and help relax their muscles, which may ease gas pain.

8. Consulting a Pediatrician: If your baby's straining and gas issues persist despite trying these methods, it may be beneficial to consult your pediatrician again. They can assess whether there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as food intolerances or allergies.

When to Seek Medical Attention
While gas is typically not a serious concern, you should seek medical attention if your baby exhibits any of the following:
- Persistent vomiting or spitting up that is green or yellow
- Blood in the stool
- Severe abdominal distension or pain
- Lack of weight gain or feeding difficulties

Conclusion
Managing gas and straining in infants can be a trial-and-error process, and what works for one baby may not work for another. Patience and gentle care are key. Continue to monitor your baby's symptoms and consult with your pediatrician for personalized advice. Remember, as your baby grows, their digestive system will mature, and these issues are likely to improve over time.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Infant Straining: Causes and Solutions for New Parents

The infant is not yet a month old, and whenever he is awake, he seems to be straining his whole body. Sometimes, when he is unable to pass gas, he cries loudly, and usually, he can’t sleep for more than five minutes before it starts again. Seeing him in such distress, I, as a mot...

Dr. Zhao Yongkang reply Pediatrics
Hello, Ms. Hsiung: It may be necessary for the child to be evaluated during a pediatric check-up, as a physical examination by the physician would provide a better assessment for the child.

Managing Infant Gas: Tips for Parents of One-Month-Olds

My baby just turned one month old, and her belly is swollen like a balloon. She burps after feeding, but it still happens. I bought gas relief ointment to apply, but it doesn't seem to help. What should I do?

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
It is common for infants to experience abdominal distension due to their soft bellies, crying, and frequent sucking motions. As long as their appetite and energy levels are normal, they are passing gas (burping and farting) adequately, having normal bowel movements, and not exper...

Managing Gas and Eye Discharge in Infants: Expert Advice

Hello Dr. Liang, 1. My son is currently 20 days old and has issues with gas. Besides applying medication, are there any other methods to help? 2. My baby has a lot of eye discharge. Is this a concern? How should I handle it? I kindly ask for your response, thank you!

Dr. Liang Hongjian reply Pediatrics
Hello: Neonatal abdominal distension is sometimes thought to be caused by the intake of air into the stomach during breastfeeding, leading to gastrointestinal bloating. Recent literature indicates that it may be related to allergic gastrointestinal conditions in infants. When add...

Understanding Baby Gas Issues: Tips for Managing Digestive Discomfort

Hello Dr. Hsiao, My baby is almost six months old and started drinking formula at four months. However, I've noticed that my baby seems to have a tendency to experience gas, so we have switched between two or three different formulas. Currently, we are using a lactose-free ...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
It is normal for infants to experience abdominal bloating because their abdominal muscles are not yet fully developed, and they tend to cry and swallow more air while feeding. Consequently, they are more prone to burping and passing gas. If the baby only has gas but has normal bo...