In a message dated 12/9/98 6:24:18 PM Central Standard Time,
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<< The problem is that he baby has significant gas
 and cramps for 5-6 hours proir to the bowel movement. She has tried
 Myilicon drops which have not helped. I have told the Mom to be patient
 and see what happens when the baby has her next  bowel movement. If it
 does not resolve spontaneously does any one have any suggestions?
 Dietary modifications for Mom or medications for the baby?

                                                 Len Presutti, DO >>

Infants sometimes have a hard time initiating a bowel movement even though the
infant is not truely constipated.  They will be fussy, colicky and gassy prior
to having a bowel movement - not constipated; just having trouble initiating
bowel movement.  Mylicon drops are useless in this situation (and most other
situations too).
Glycerin suppositories are totally safe and very effective in helping the
infant have a bowel movement.  Glycerin supp. are not a medicine!  They help
lubricate and mechanically stimulate a bowel movement.  Sometimes you simply
insert the supp. and the infant immediately has a nice soft bowel movement
along with the still formed glycerin supp. (OBTW, don't reuse it!  <g>).  The
baby is happy and everyone is happy!  :)
Andrew MD
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