Formula and bowel motions?

[tyesmum]

I am the mother of a 6 week old boy who is currently FF on Karicare Soya formula. Due to his bilateral cleft lip and palate, I was unable to breastfeed and expressed for the first 4wks until my supply dwindled. We started him on Nan Formula, but as I and his father did, he reacted to the cows milk base. Since starting the soy based formula, he has stopped vomiting after his feeds, been alot more settled and his skin has cleared up completely, however, his bowel motions are roughly every 2-3 days and quite firm and cause him to really strain and distress him to pass. He stiffens his little body up and turns bright red and it reminds me of when I was pushing him out! What would be causing his motions to be so hard and not the "peanut butter" consistency? Is there anything we can do?

Thanks!

[the pero clinic]

Dear Tyesmum,

I’m afraid this is more of a question for your doctor. I can tell you, however, that it can sometimes take a little while for a bub’s system to adapt to a change of formula. Also, it is a good idea to double check that you are making the new formula according to the instructions, and using the correct proportions of water and formula (and not overfilling the formula scoop). Finally, you can gently massage your bub’s tummy in a clockwise direction or try a warm bath when you can see that it’s ‘time’ to help your bub relax.

It does not sound concerning that there are 2-3 days between bowel motions, or that there is a degree of straining – see your doctor if your bub seems to be in pain or distress, or if the bowel motion is, in fact, quite hard.

the pero clinic