Poo withholding 2yr old after potty training

[Earlyearly]

Our 2 year old son started potty training 3 weeks ago. He took to it well, and did wees and poos in it from day 2. He eats a varied diet and always pooed twice a day in nappies etc no problem. However, since potty training he must have held poo and then had a large hard poo which caused a fissure and a lot of pain. Since this he is terrified to poo and holding up to 3 days. He is on movicol from GP which means his poo is soft and sausage like, but he is still holding for days and hopping around and just terrified. We have tried books, exploring poo etc etc, and are clueless what the future holds. When it finally expelled from him standing he screams and is so so upset. Heartbreaking, but now he’s too aware and won’t go in nappy either. Has anyone else had this or for over it?

[ERIC-Charity Partner]

Hi @Earlyyearly, this sounds so upsetting for you both. Unfortunately it's really common when potty training. Have a look at the links below, the focus is around helping your child to relax, avoid asking if he needs a poo as this increases stress. eric.org.uk/childrens-bowel.... eric.org.uk/potty-training/.... eric.org.uk/childrens-bowel...

[14crosstitch14]

Try a game with teddy bears, put some music on to calm him and distract him. He just needs to have a routine after and before meals. Plenty fruit and lots of fluids. It's hard for you and you need lots of patience. I gave my girls these words all day every day you can do it. Stick it in their head. Good luck