From the Research
Water alone is not a suitable treatment for constipation in a 24-day-old infant. For infants this young, constipation should be evaluated by a pediatrician before attempting any treatment. While proper hydration is important for infants, newborns get their fluid needs met through breast milk or formula, and additional water is not recommended for babies under 6 months as it can disrupt their electrolyte balance and potentially lead to water intoxication 1. If a 24-day-old infant appears constipated (showing signs like firm stools, straining, or going more than 3-4 days without a bowel movement), parents should contact their pediatrician immediately. The doctor may recommend gentle techniques such as:
- Warm baths
- Gentle tummy massage in a clockwise direction
- Bicycle leg movements to help stimulate bowel movements In some cases, the pediatrician might suggest a small amount of apple or pear juice diluted with water for babies over one month, or possibly a glycerin suppository, but these interventions should only be used under medical supervision 1. Constipation in newborns can sometimes indicate more serious conditions that require medical attention. According to the most recent study, the use of polyethylene glycol 3350 with electrolytes (PEG+E) is effective in disimpaction, and the addition of a stimulant laxative sodium picosulphate (PEG+E+PS) has shown superior results in terms of disimpaction and long-term management of constipation 2. However, this treatment is not suitable for infants as young as 24 days, and medical supervision is necessary to determine the best course of treatment.