Trusted Remedies for Occasional Constipation in Children
It is a scenario familiar to parents across the UK: your usually energetic child becomes lethargic, their tummy feels firm, and they are clearly in discomfort. Constipation is one of the most common health complaints in children, affecting up to 30% of little ones at some point. Whether it’s due to "potty training withholding," a lack of fibre, or simply not drinking enough water during a busy school day, the result is the same: distress for them and worry for you.
When your child is struggling to go, you want a solution that is effective but, above all, gentle. You don't want to resort to harsh laxatives that might cause cramping or panic. Instead, the goal is to work with the body to encourage a natural movement.
In this guide, we will walk you through the most trusted remedies for occasional constipation in children, from simple lifestyle tweaks to the reliable relief offered by products like Care Glycerin Suppositories.
1. Hydration: The First Line of Defence
Before reaching for the medicine cabinet, look at the water bottle. Dehydration is a leading cause of hard stools. When the body lacks fluid, the colon absorbs more water from the food waste, making the stool dry and difficult to pass.
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The Fix: Encourage your child to sip water throughout the day. If they are resistant to water, diluted fruit juice (especially pear or prune juice) can be helpful as it contains sorbitol, a natural sugar that draws water into the bowel.
2. Fibre-Rich Foods: The "Broom" of the Bowel
We often hear about "5-a-day," but for constipation, the type of fibre matters. Insoluble fibre adds bulk to the stool and helps it move through the digestive tract more quickly.
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The Fix: Swap white bread for wholemeal, keep the skins on apples and pears, and introduce more beans, pulses, and oats into their meals.
3. Establish a "Toilet Routine"
Children are often too busy playing to pause for a bathroom break, leading to withholding. Over time, this desensitises the bowel's signals.
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The Fix: Encourage your child to sit on the toilet for 5-10 minutes after breakfast or dinner. This takes advantage of the body's natural "gastrocolic reflex," where eating stimulates the bowel to move.
4. When Diet Isn't Enough: Glycerin Suppositories
Sometimes, despite your best efforts with diet and water, the stool is just too hard to pass comfortably. In these moments, a "rescue" remedy is needed to break the cycle of pain and withholding. This is where Glycerin Suppositories have been a trusted family staple for decades.
How They Work: Glycerin is a gentle, hyperosmotic agent. When used as a suppository, it works in two ways:
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Lubrication: It lubricates the lower bowel, making it easier for the hard stool to slide out without pain.
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Stimulation: It gently draws water into the bowel from the surrounding tissues, softening the stool and stimulating the urge to go within 15 to 60 minutes.
Because they work locally (only where needed) and are not absorbed into the bloodstream like oral laxatives, they are often preferred for their speed and predictability.
Important Safety Note: Choosing the Right Size
It is vital to understand that suppositories come in different sizes according to age. Using the correct size ensures safety and comfort for your child.
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For Infants and Children: You must use the 1g or 2g size suppositories. These are smaller and formulated specifically for little bodies.
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For Adults: The standard size is 4g. This larger dose is designed for adult anatomy and should not be used on young children unless specifically directed by a doctor.
While Care is the go-to brand for these remedies, it is important to check the box. The link below is for the Adult 4g version, which is an essential item for the parents' medicine cabinet but serves as a reminder to ensure you select the appropriate paediatric version for your little ones.
View the Adult Product Here: Care Glycerin Suppositories 4g (Adult) (Note: Please search our store for the 'Infant' or 'Child' 1g/2g version for use on children.)
Why Families Trust the "Care" Brand
When it comes to family health, brand heritage matters. Care is a household name in UK pharmacies because they focus on simple, effective formulations without unnecessary additives. Whether it’s the 4g suppositories for adults or the 1g versions for toddlers, having a pack in the bathroom cabinet provides peace of mind. It means that when constipation strikes, you have a safe, fast-acting solution ready to help your family get back to feeling their best.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How quickly do glycerin suppositories work for children? They are known for their speed. Typically, a bowel movement will occur within 15 to 60 minutes after insertion. This allows you to plan and be near a toilet, avoiding accidents.
2. Can I use the 4g adult suppositories for my child? No, generally you should not use the 4g Adult suppositories for young children. They are too large and the dose of glycerin is higher than needed. Always opt for the 1g (Infant) or 2g (Child) suppositories, which are widely available.
3. Are suppositories painful for children? They can feel strange, but they should not be painful. You can make insertion more comfortable by warming the suppository in your hands slightly or using a tiny drop of water or water-based lubricant on the tip.
4. Is it safe to use suppositories often? Glycerin suppositories are intended for occasional use to relieve acute constipation. They are not a long-term solution. If your child is frequently constipated, consult your GP to address the underlying cause.
5. What is the difference between oral laxatives and suppositories? Oral laxatives must travel through the entire digestive system, taking 6-12 hours to work. Suppositories work locally in the rectum and provide relief usually within an hour. This makes them ideal for immediate relief when a child is in distress from a hard stool.