Autism and Constipation: Can Constipation Cause Potty Training Accidents? with Dr. Steve Hodges

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In this interview with Dr. Steve Hodges we are discussing a really important topic, that unfortunately is not talked about often enough. Dr. Hodges is a pediatric urologist who specializes in constipation. We talk all about the challenges with potty training and the challenges with treating constipation, specifically in kids, teens and adults with autism. We even talk about the signs of constipation and issues in babies.

Constipation in Children: When to Worry

Many parents and professionals do not realize that most potty related issues are caused or related to constipation. Dr. Hodges shares a few examples from his practice in which accidents were solved by finding and treating a large mass of poop found in the colon via X-Ray.

Constipation is an urgent medical issue and should be treated as such. It’s important to pay attention and be aware of the size, frequency, and consistency of bowel movements for any child who is having potty issues. What can cause constipation? This could be antibiotics, a change in consistency, pain, or any aversion to pooping.

Enema for Toddlers with Constipation

In addition to miraLAX, other laxatives, and suppositories, enemas are a quick solution for constipation. While an enema may seem extreme, from a scientific standpoint they are the quickest and most direct solution to the problem, a mass or build up of poop in the colon. A child may still be going to the bathroom and having accidents even through a buildup, so an enema is going to clear up that blockage and allow a smoother transition for potty training, preventing accidents and further constipation.

Dr. Hodges and I discuss when to use an enema and the best practice for giving them to typical children and those with autism or developmental delays. Dr. Hodges has a wealth of knowledge on this subject and has helped many families with the stress that comes with potty issues. You can find great information that pertains to your situation from his books, The Pre-M.O.P Book and The M.O.P Book. He also has several options for Facebook groups both free and paid that provide a private, safe, place for questions and support for constipation, bedwetting, and other potty accidents and issues.

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Autism and Constipation

Dr. Hodges on Turn Around Autism Podcast

Steve Hodges, M.D., is an associate professor of pediatric urology at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and an expert on bedwetting, toilet training, and constipation. The author of numerous scientific journal articles, Dr. Hodges also has written several books for families, including “Bedwetting and Accidents Aren’t Your Fault” and “The M.O.P. Book: The Proven Way to STOP Bedwetting and Accidents in Toddlers through Teens.” A father of three girls, Dr. Hodges is on a mission to educate families about enuresis and encopresis, conditions that are misunderstood, stigmatized, and inadequately treated.

You’ll Learn

  • Can constipation cause problems with urination?
  • How to relieve constipation in babies.
  • Constipation in children and when to worry?
  • How to give enemas and suppositories to young children.
  • Why constipation is a serious problem.
  • Potty training with exposure versus force.
  • Can a potty schedule damage potty training or cause constipation?

Resources

Free Workshop

Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays