Constipation is very common in children and often starts a cycle: a hard stool hurts, so the child holds it in, and the next stool becomes even harder. Breaking the cycle needs a clear plan — and patience — rather than repeated short courses of laxatives.
Signs parents notice
- Fewer than three bowel movements a week
- Hard, dry or lumpy stools; straining or crying while passing
- Holding stool — crossing legs, hiding, standing on tip-toes
- Tummy pain, bloating or poor appetite
- Soiling of underwear
- Streaks of blood from a small tear (fissure)
Common causes
- Low fibre and low fluid intake
- Too much cow's milk in young children
- Stool holding after a painful experience or during toilet training
- Lack of physical activity
- Rarely: thyroid problems, Hirschsprung's disease or spinal problems
How Dr. Jenny evaluates & treats
- Excluding red-flag causes through history and examination
- Clearing hard, retained stool safely when needed
- A daily maintenance plan with the right dose and duration of medicine
- Diet, fluid and toilet-routine advice the whole family can follow
- Follow-up until regular, painless bowel habits are re-established
When to see a doctor
- Constipation since the first weeks of life or delayed first stool after birth
- A swollen tummy with vomiting
- Constipation with weakness in the legs
- No improvement despite treatment
Serial: 01786-126908 · In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Watch: Dr. Jenny explains
Tummy & gut
শিশুর কোষ্ঠকাঠিন্য কেন হয়? পায়খানা শক্ত ও চেপে রাখলে কী সমস্যা হয়?
Why children get constipated — and why holding stool matters
Watch on YouTubeFrequently asked questions
Are laxatives safe for children?
Laxatives commonly used in children are safe when prescribed in the right dose. Stopping too early is the most common reason constipation returns.
This page gives general information for parents and is being reviewed by Dr. Ferdous Ara Jenny. It does not replace a consultation — every child is different.