Baby's Bowel Issues: Feeding Patterns and Constipation Concerns

Bowel issues?

Hello, my baby is currently 7 days away from turning 3 months old.
Due to work commitments, I have my mother-in-law take care of the baby every other day.
She feeds the baby a lot; a 900-gram can of formula is finished in 6 days.
I have asked her to feed the baby every 4 hours, but she seems unable to follow that schedule.
When I take care of the baby, I have a fixed feeding schedule (06:00, 10:00, 14:00, 18:00, 20:00), and the baby sleeps through the night until morning.
However, my mother-in-law still feeds the baby at night, with each feeding being 150 to even 180 ml.
Is this too much? The baby used to have daily bowel movements, but now, since my mother-in-law has been taking care of him, he only has a bowel movement every 2 or 3 days.
Could this be due to the formula preparation or overfeeding? Would it be better to have a fixed feeding schedule? (My mother-in-law feeds him whenever he cries.) When we went for vaccinations at 2 months, the doctor mentioned that the baby was too big, weighing 2834 grams, which was already over 6 kilograms at that time.
I would appreciate your assistance, doctor.

Chen Ma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/12/10

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

1.
Issues with formula preparation can potentially affect bowel movements (if the formula is too diluted, stools may be less frequent; if it is too concentrated, stools may be loose).
Feeding too much does not necessarily impact bowel movements.

2.
Fixed feeding schedules are not always better (for example, with breastfeeding, since it empties quickly, the baby should be fed when hungry).
Feeding can be adjusted according to the adult's schedule (for instance, feeding more before bedtime), but the baby's needs should remain the priority.
3.
A two-month-old baby weighing over six kilograms may be somewhat overweight (not all "chubby" is considered healthy).
The principles for managing a baby's excessive eating are as follows: (1) Control the baby's food intake: As long as the baby's nutritional needs are met, allow them to eat less, and do not respond to fussing; over time, the baby will adjust.
(2) Distract the baby: Engage in play to divert their attention from wanting to eat, gradually extending the time between feedings.
(3) Provide a pacifier to satisfy their oral cravings.
(4) Do not wake the baby to feed them while they are sleeping: Sleep is more important than eating, and any missed feeding during sleep will be compensated for at other meals.

Reply Date: 2007/12/10

More Info

When it comes to understanding your baby's bowel issues, feeding patterns, and constipation concerns, it's essential to consider several factors, including feeding frequency, the type of formula used, and the baby's overall health and development.

Firstly, it’s important to establish a consistent feeding schedule. You mentioned that you have a fixed feeding routine of every four hours, which is generally a good practice for infants. However, if your baby is being fed by someone else (like your mother-in-law) who may not adhere to this schedule, it can lead to overfeeding or underfeeding. Overfeeding can cause discomfort, and underfeeding can lead to constipation. The fact that your baby is now having bowel movements every two to three days instead of daily could indicate that the feeding pattern has changed significantly, potentially leading to constipation.

Regarding the amount of formula being given, if your baby is consuming 150 to 180 cc per feeding and is still hungry, that might be appropriate for their age and weight. However, if they are consistently crying for more food, it could indicate that they are not getting enough, or it could be a behavioral response to being fed on demand rather than on a schedule. Babies often cry for various reasons, and hunger is just one of them.
The formula preparation itself can also play a role in bowel movements. If the formula is not mixed correctly (for example, too concentrated or too diluted), it can affect digestion and lead to constipation or diarrhea. Ensure that the formula is prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions, as improper mixing can lead to gastrointestinal issues.

As for the frequency of bowel movements, it’s normal for infants to have varying bowel habits. Some may have several bowel movements a day, while others may go a few days without one. However, if your baby is straining to pass stools or if the stools are hard, this could indicate constipation. In such cases, it might be beneficial to consult a pediatrician for advice on dietary adjustments or possible interventions.

In terms of feeding practices, it’s generally recommended to feed on demand, especially for younger infants. However, if your baby is being fed by someone else, it may be helpful to communicate your feeding schedule and preferences clearly to ensure consistency. If your mother-in-law is feeding your baby when they cry, it might lead to confusion about hunger cues and could result in overfeeding.

Lastly, if you notice any signs of discomfort, such as excessive crying, difficulty passing stools, or changes in appetite, it’s crucial to consult with a pediatrician. They can provide tailored advice based on your baby's specific needs and growth patterns.
In summary, maintaining a consistent feeding schedule, ensuring proper formula preparation, and monitoring your baby's bowel movements are key to addressing any feeding and constipation concerns. Open communication with caregivers about feeding practices is also essential to ensure your baby's health and comfort.

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