4. Changing the retention habit
a. Sitting on the commode for 5 to 10 minutes approximately 20 to 30 minutes after meals.
b. Keeping a behavioral chart with positive rewards (daily stars may be helpful).
c. Avoiding negative reinforcement
d. Using biofeedback, a potentially useful tool to reteach the feeling of rectal fullness,
e. Increasing physical exercise, relaxation activities, and the use of stress reduction approaches to decrease anxiety
The goal is for the child to pass two or three soft stools per day without Pain within the first month following treatment. Medications are withdrawn slowly over a 3-to 6-month period after the fear of pain is gone or significantly diminished.
For infant constipation, rectal stimulation is discouraged. For example, rectal thermometers and glycerin suppositories should not the used. Barley cereal can be substituted for rice cereal. Ingestions of fructose(prune juice) or lactulose can help. High-fiber fruits and vegetables will also decease constipation.