Colic is the most common problem most babies and parents experience. Stomach cramps are the most probable explanation, although babies happen to cry tirelessly also because of feelings of discomfort, or any outside stress they may experience. The treatment does not include medication, especially since we see it as a normal period, and we just accept the fact that we are going to have a tough few months. However, you can take some steps to ease the symptoms and help both your baby and yourself.
Feed your baby correctly
There are many reasons why babies feel fussy before, during, and after eating. If you happen to notice your baby starts crying after feeding time, the cause may be overfeeding. A solution to this problem is to try nursing or giving them the bottle frequently but in less quantity. Another reason they may experience stomach pain is swallowing too much air because there is a fast flow of milk. If they haven’t burped, they can experience bloating and pain. Find out how to do it correctly, and if they don’t burp, they probably don’t need to.
Massaging the stomach
Gas, any pain, or discomfort are also common. Your baby may be experiencing colic due to nervousness, tension and many other factors. A proven step is to take a nourishing baby massage oil and gently massage your baby. It will soothe and calm them because they are feeling your touch, and the massage can help with the gas problem, or calm them enough till any pain goes away. Besides, their skin will be super soft and hydrated, which is very important since the baby’s skin is sensitive.
Giving them a warm bath
Even you feel relaxed and less tense when you take a warm bath. Now imagine how your baby must feel after a nice, relaxing bath. Make sure you use warm, not hot water since it can dry out their skin and make them even fussier. If they need a bit more contact, you can place your hand on their belly, and this way, they will feel secure and safe. Make sure not to pour water over the head, and in their eyes, but aside from that, we are sure your baby will love the baths, especially before bedtime. This is a helpful tip considering how colic symptoms happen in the evening mostly.
Holding your baby
Holding a baby that has colic, as well as a rested and calm baby, is very important. You won’t create a habit and make them get used to being held. Rather, they will feel loved, safe, and calm, which can help in reducing symptoms of colic. Some of the positions you can try are kangaroo style and walking with them around the house, rocking them or taking them for a ride in a car or a stroller can also help. If you have a massage chair or any vibrating device, you can use it to calm your baby. And most importantly, while doing that, try to remain calm as much as you can because the baby can sense your frustration and feel anxious as well.
White noise
Babies start their life in your belly getting used to the sounds like the blood rushing through your veins, your heartbeat, and much else. This is why, when they come to this world, they don’t mind the noise as much. In fact, many babies respond well to the harsh sounds of a vacuum cleaner or a blow dryer. White noise machines are also quite popular since they mimic the sounds the baby was used to inside the womb, and it calms them down. Make sure not to use it too much since the baby can get used to it, and might not be able to sleep without it.
Having your baby going through colic is quite frustrating, but it’s even harder on them. Staying calm is vital, so you can take some of these steps and soothe your little one.
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