My 9 year old step son gets constipated because he won't go when he feels the urge. I don't know what to do

Question

We keep him on a pretty healthy diet - no soda or junk food, but I don't know what he has when he's at his mother's house. He eats dried prunes and still won't go.. help!!

Answer 1

There is both a psychological and physical reason that this is happening.  My son has the same problem and it is more than likely a condition called encopresis. We have been going through the cycles of constipation and laxatives/stool softeners/fiber for years. You can email me if you need any answers as it is too much to discuss on here.

Answer 2

Make sure he eats plenty of veggies and stay away from things like cheese and bananas- he'll go eventually.

If you are really concerned, talk to his pediatrician for ideas for making him go.

Remember, he may not go everyday either, some kids go every 2-3 days.

Answer 3

I worked at a pediatrician for a while.  We had kids (mostly boys) that this would happen to.  Or the opposite, they would go in thier pants.  It was usually due to some kind of psychological problem.  I would check with his dr.

Answer 4

I don't know how long you've been a mother figure to your step son, but if you 'watch' him during the day, and encourage him to 'go' during the day - he may respond to the positive encouragement.,,

At 9 years, this couldalso  be addressed with his doctor; there may be another, medical, reason

Answer 5

dried prunes... how about prune juice?

or bananas or mango or flax seed (for me flax seed work the best! you can add them into his cereals, soups, salads...)

eating less junk food is very much of help. But he shouldn't stock up on bread either