How to manage intestinal dysfunction in newborns
Sep 11, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
Introduction
In general, intestinal dysfunction in newborns may be caused by factors such as immature intestinal development, improper feeding methods, lactose intolerance, intestinal flora imbalance, or bacterial enteritis. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then proceed with general treatments, medications, or other interventions under a doctor's guidance. Close observation of the newborn's mental status and bowel movements is necessary in daily care.
Generally, intestinal dysfunction in newborns may be caused by factors such as immature intestinal development, improper feeding methods, lactose intolerance, intestinal flora imbalance, or bacterial enteritis. It is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause, followed by appropriate management under a doctor's guidance, including general treatments and medication. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Immature intestinal development: The intestinal mucosal barrier and digestive enzyme secretion functions in newborns are not fully developed, making them prone to abnormal digestion and absorption. During feeding, follow the principle of small and frequent meals, avoiding overfeeding at one time; breastfeeding mothers should maintain a light diet and avoid spicy or greasy foods; formula feeding should strictly follow the recommended mixing ratio to avoid overly concentrated or diluted formulas, thus reducing the digestive burden on the intestines.
2. Improper feeding method: Incorrect feeding posture or sudden increase or decrease in milk volume may lead to excessive air swallowing or poor intestinal adaptation in newborns. Adjust to the correct feeding posture to ensure proper latching by the newborn, reducing air intake; hold the infant upright and gently pat the back after feeding to expel air from the stomach.
3. Lactose intolerance: Insufficient lactase secretion in the newborn's intestine prevents complete breakdown of lactose, leading to bloating and diarrhea. Breastfeeding infants may be supplemented with lactase drops under a doctor's guidance to aid lactose digestion; formula-fed infants may switch to low-lactose or lactose-free formula.
4. Intestinal flora imbalance: Instability in the intestinal flora of newborns can lead to digestive dysfunction when microbial balance is disrupted. Under medical guidance, probiotics such as Bifidobacterium triple viable capsules, Bacillus subtilis and Bifidobacterium bifidum viable powder, or Clostridium butyricum viable powder may be used to regulate intestinal flora balance.
5. Bacterial enteritis: Inflammation caused by bacterial infection of the intestine leads to symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting, worsening intestinal dysfunction. Follow medical advice to use antibacterial medications such as cefixime granules, amoxicillin clavulanate potassium dry suspension, or gentamicin sulfate granules to eliminate pathogenic bacteria; maintain perianal hygiene.
Monitor the newborn's mental status and bowel movements closely in daily care, recording frequency and stool characteristics; keep the newborn's buttocks clean and dry, washing with warm water after each bowel movement.
