Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
HardPoop for a 16 days old baby
Hi, Our 16 days old baby girl is primary on formula feed because of lactation issues. Since two days we have noticed that she is having hard stools. She doesn’t seem to be in pain but strains a little when it’s time for her to poop. She poops once or twice a day. Peas 8 to 10 times a day. She takes 60ml of Similac (basic one) every two hours during the day and every 3 hours at night. This seems to be constipation which is concerning. Should we switch formula to something like Similac comfort or Nan excella pro?
Not finding what you need? Ask Practo AI
FREE
Chat with Practo AI on Whatsapp
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced orthopedist online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
Not finding what you need? Ask Practo AI
FREE
Chat with Practo AI on Whatsapp
Thank you for reaching out and providing detailed information about your baby’s feeding and bowel patterns. It’s quite common to see some changes in stool consistency when a newborn starts on formula, and mild straining or firmer stools are often part of a baby’s adjustment to the new feeding routine.
Based on what you’ve described—occasional hard stools with some straining but no distress, and still passing stool once or twice a day—I would consider this mild constipation. It’s reassuring that she is otherwise feeding well, passing urine adequately, and not showing signs of significant discomfort or blood in stools.
My opinion:
It’s normal for formula-fed babies to have firmer stools compared to breastfed infants. Some straining is typical as newborns learn to coordinate their bowel movements. If your baby isn't excessively fussy, bloated, or having very infrequent stools (less than once every 2-3 days), this isn’t usually dangerous and doesn't necessarily require an immediate formula change
Next Steps
Monitor for other concerning symptoms like persistent crying, vomiting, blood in stool, marked decrease in wet diapers, or refusal to feed.
Ensure you are preparing the formula exactly as per guidelines—too much powder can make it harder to digest.
Gently bicycle her legs or give her a warm bath to help with bowel movements.
Health Tips
Special formulas like Similac Comfort or NAN Excella Pro are designed to be gentler on the tummy and may help some infants with ongoing issues. You may consider switching if hard stools persist for more than a week or worsen, but often constipation resolves on its own as the digestive system adapts.
If you have ongoing concerns or the baby’s symptoms worsen, please schedule a consultation so we can provide tailored care.
Answered
1/1 people found this helpful
Not finding what you need? Ask Practo AI
FREE
Chat with Practo AI on Whatsapp
Not finding what you need? Ask Practo AI
FREE
Chat with Practo AI on Whatsapp
Yes it is a case of constipation.
I hope you are making formula milk in right composition that is 1 scoop in 30 mL of warm water.
Next Steps
Yes your concern is right. You can switch to nan excella pro 1 or similac total comfort, their composition is much easier to digest.
Health Tips
You can try any of these, and see the difference, if baby is still constipated, then better to show your nearby paediatrician.
Answered
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Not finding what you need? Ask Practo AI
FREE
Chat with Practo AI on Whatsapp
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.