Watching your little one struggle with colic can be incredibly distressing, leaving you feeling exhausted and helpless. However, though it can be a trying time, it's important to remember that it is a common and usually temporary phase. Read on to discover how you can soothe your baby.
Understanding Colic
What is Colic?
Colic is defined as episodes of prolonged and frequent crying in otherwise healthy babies. These crying spells typically last for more than three hours a day, three days a week, for at least three weeks.
They often start around two to three weeks of age, peak at six weeks, and usually improve by the three- to four-month mark.
Potential Causes of Colic
While the exact cause of colic remains unclear, several theories exist:
- Overstimulation: Babies can become easily overwhelmed by sensory input, leading to irritability and crying.
- Digestive discomfort: Gas from feedings and sensitivity to certain foods in breast milk can cause pain and contribute to colic symptoms.
Immediate Soothing Techniques
Swaddling
Swaddling involves wrapping your baby snugly in a blanket, recreating the comforting sensation of the womb. This can help soothe a crying baby by providing a sense of security and containment.
Create a Calm Environment
A calm environment can help ease colic baby symptoms. Consider using white noise machines, dimming the lights, and limiting visitors to reduce overstimulation.
Rocking and Motion
Gentle rocking, bouncing, or using a baby swing can provide soothing motion that helps calm a colicky baby.
Skin-to-Skin Contact
Skin-to-skin contact refers to holding your baby close against your bare chest. This promotes warmth and security and helps comfort them when they’re distressed.
Establish a Routine
A predictable feeding, nap, and bedtime schedule can create a sense of security and help regulate your baby’s mood.
Addressing Potential Digestive Discomfort
Burping While Feeding
Trapped air from feeding can cause discomfort in a baby. As such, burp your baby after each ounce of formula or every five minutes of breastfeeding. You can do this by gently patting their back or rubbing it in a circular motion to release the gas.
Adjusting Feeding Techniques
Feeding your baby in an upright position and taking breaks during feedings can help minimise gas. If you’re breastfeeding, avoiding gassy foods like broccoli or allergenic foods like dairy can also make a difference.
You can also contact a breastfeeding consultant for personalised lactation advice, such as foods to avoid while breastfeeding, to determine the dietary changes that may help ease your baby’s colic.
Trying Anti-Colic Bottles
Some bottles are designed with fast-flow teats to reduce air intake during feeding, enhancing your baby's comfort and potentially alleviating colic symptoms.
Colic Baby Massage
Gently massaging your baby at the tummy in a clockwise direction or moving their legs in a cycling motion can help relieve gas and ease their digestive discomfort. If you’d like extra guidance, Flegen’s baby massage class in Singapore can equip you with the skills to perform massages safely and effectively.
When to Seek Professional Help
While colic typically resolves on its own, it's essential to look out for symptoms that warrant medical attention. For example, if your baby has a fever, is vomiting, or exhibits poor weight gain, consult a doctor as these could signal underlying health issues.
Self-Care for Parents
Feelings of frustration and exhaustion are entirely normal when dealing with a colicky baby. Therefore, remember to be patient and take periodic breaks to manage stress. For example, taking turns minding the baby with your partner or family members can provide a much-needed reprieve from the pressures of caregiving.
Calm Amidst the Colic
Although its symptoms are distressing, colic is a common and typically temporary phase. In the meantime, relieving digestive discomfort and creating a calm environment can significantly soothe your baby.
At the same time, remember that you’re not alone in these challenges and to seek support when needed. Whether from family, friends, or professionals, a strong support network can make all the difference.