How do children defecate?

Answer 1

Kids should defecate just like everyone else -- at least once a day, and without any discomfort. Anything less is considered less than ideal.

Normal bowel movement habits can be up to three times per day. This is true for both infants and adults. However, infant bowel movements are usually much softer because of the nature of their food. Breast milk should lead to very soft poops. Infants should not have diarrhea, nor should they have formed stools.

As infants get older and solid foods are introduced, then their stools become more formed. They should never be difficult to pass or be urgent, but they will eventually take the shape of logs. They should continue to poop at least once a day.

The same is true for older kids and even adults. Deviations from this pattern that last more than a few days indicate that their digestive system is not functioning at an optimal level. This can be caused by a bacterial problem, but it is most commonly caused by the type of food that is being eaten.

For example, if infants are getting diarrhea or constipation, then they are likely reacting to the food that they are eating. This is true even if they are only breast feeding. Breast feeding babies are being exposed to the foods that the mother is eating. If one or more of those foods is a problem for the infant then it can cause diarrhea or constipation.

This problem can continue throughout life and affect the bowel movements of a child at any age, not to mention many other aspects of their health. Never assume that any one food is automatically good for your kid, regardless of what you have been told. Many infants and kids react very poorly to cow's milk products. Most infant formulas contain cow's milk, which isn't necessarily the ideal food for an infant, nor a child.

Although you should see your doctor about any problems that your kids are having when they poop, be aware that your doctor may not address the cause of problem. In most cases doctors are trained to identify and treat digestive symptoms rather than figure out exactly what caused the problem in the beginning.

You may have to experiment with your child's diet in order to sort out what foods are right for your kid. Don't be afraid to do this. You are much closer to the problem than anyone else, and you may be able to see a relationship between how you child eats and how they feel long before anyone else does.