What cause constipation in children ?
Most children don't have anything physically wrong with them, and their bowels are perfectly normal. (See box below for common causes). Once the child has had one experience of a painful poo they then often start holding on to their stools because they are frightened it will hurt.Sometimes your child can hold on too long because:They feel embarrassed to use a public toiletBecause the one available is dirty, uncomfortable or is not private (e.g. at school)Because they don't want to stop whatever they are doing (e.g. a game)Cause constipation in children holding on too long – painful pooInsufficient fibre in dietInadequate fluid intakeLack of exerciseEnvironmental issues – i.e. lack of private/hygienic toilet facilities
