The Exam Room by the Physicians Committee Why Kids Get Constipated — And How Parents Can Fix It | Dr. Iris Wang
Mar 10, 2026
Dr. Iris Wong, a Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist and author of Boo Can't Poo, specializes in pediatric constipation and gut–brain interaction. She explains why kids get constipated, the role of diet, hydration, movement, and the pelvic floor. Practical tips cover helping picky eaters, when to seek care, and how to talk about poop without shame.
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Constipation Produces Widespread GI Consequences
- Constipation can trigger many secondary GI problems beyond infrequent stools, including pain, gas, delayed stomach emptying, and reflux.
- Dr. Iris Wong calls chronic constipation in GI the “root of all evil” because stasis creates broad downstream dysfunction.
Stasis Alters The Microbiome In Favor Of Methane Producers
- Slow colonic transit changes microbiome composition, favoring methanogenic and potentially pro-inflammatory bacteria.
- Wong likens stasis to standing water for mosquitoes: slowed flow lets undesirable bacteria proliferate, worsening sensitivity.
Use A Multi‑Pronged Approach Not Single Fixes
- Combine fiber, hydration, movement, and address pelvic floor issues rather than relying on one fix.
- Fiber adds bulk but needs water to stay soft; if outlet muscles don't relax, bulky stool can worsen the problem.
