My son was only 3 weeks old when his bowel problems started and it was truly horrible, there was nothing that could be done for a 3 week old. As time went on we tried a variety of things to help his constipation, some worked for a short while, others didn't.

Constipation is common in all ages and children especially can find it hard to deal with, I'm sure at some point we have all had and we can remember that terrible pain well. Constipation can often mean you aren't going to the toilet as often as usual and your stools are hard, lumpy, extremely large or small.

Constipation should usually only last a few days in children but if it does last longer, professional help may be needed, first point of call would be your doctor who would often prescribe a slight laxative to soften the stools to create a more regular passing.

To self treat constipation it is extremely important that your child has a balanced and healthy diet, including lots of fruit and vegetables but also plenty of fluids. As a 'quick' fix prunes boiled with their juices drained to eat helps and then drink the juice later, this softens the stools and is good for children.

Dealing with constipation in children is very difficult for any parent to deal with, seeing your child in pain is awful but generally it will only last for days and then be over with. My son had problems until the age of 2 and a half with a variety of medicines not working, thankfully he has now grown out of it but I do sympathise with any parent going through it.

See your pharmacist or doctor if you are concerned, you know your child best.