Newborn Constipation: Gentle Tips for Your 3-Week-Old

It's common for newborns to have infrequent bowel movements, especially in the first few weeks of life. As long as your son is passing gas and seems comfortable, there's usually no need to worry. Here are a few tips to help your son poop:

- Give him a belly massage. Gently rub his belly in a clockwise direction for a few minutes. This can help to stimulate his bowels and encourage a bowel movement.

- Try a warm bath. Soaking in a warm bath can help to relax your son's muscles and make it easier for him to poop.

- Offer him some prune juice. Prune juice is a natural laxative that can help to soften stool and make it easier to pass.

- If your son is breastfed, try changing your diet. Some foods, such as dairy products and certain vegetables, can cause constipation in breastfed babies. Talk to your doctor about which foods to avoid.

If your son still hasn't had a bowel movement after a few days, talk to your doctor. He or she may recommend giving your son a glycerin suppository or enema to help him poop.