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Handling Colicky Babies

Posted on May 15 2022

In today's episode, we're going to discuss colic and how you can help to soothe your baby.

It can be difficult to see your little one so upset, inconsolable, and uncomfortable. We know that colic can be a major source of stress for parents, not just because it’s difficult to see your child in so much distress but also because it makes you feel like you’re not giving them the comfort and love they need.

I empathize with them because I've been there too, and believe me, it was a scary and frustrating experience.

Whilst colic is a relatively common condition, it can be frustrating for parents because the baby's distress occurs for no apparent reason and no amount of consoling seems to bring any relief, adding stress to already tired new parents.

Typically, colic should go away by the time your baby is 4 months old. Until then, try these tips. They may give both mother and baby some relief.

Tip #1: Hold or Wear Your Baby

😌Research shows that babies who are held or carried more are less susceptible to colic. It's possible that wearing babies is soothing as they adjust to their new environment so they are less overwhelmed throughout the day and build up less tension.

😌I hugged and cuddled my daughters a lot especially during such episodes, to provide comfort to them and it is also a great way to bond with them.

Tip #2: Swaddling

😌Most newborns like to be wrapped securely. It reminds them of the womb-like environment and gives them a sense of comfort and a great way to help them calm down.

😌As your baby's age progresses, you can work on transitioning from a swaddle to a baby sleeping bag and help your baby continue to enjoy a comfortable and longer sleep.

Tip #3: Rhythmic Motion

😌Rocking works for some babies. Some parents swear by baby swings or baby hammocks. There were times when I took my daughters out for a ride in the car 🚗 as the motion of the car often soothes them.

Tip #4: Singing

😌I loved singing to my babies. Not only does it distract them but it also helped to calm both of us down.😇

Tip #5: White Noise

😌White noise can block out household noise, noises associated with traffic or voices that can over-stimulate baby nerves.

😌Playing a heartbeat soundtrack works effectively on my daughters. You can also try classical music if that works better for your infant.

😌Some mothers swear by their vacuum cleaner or white noise machine.

😌Just provide a soothing, calming, repetitive sound effect to calm your fussy baby.

Do note that what works for one baby may not work for another. Learning how to understand your baby's cry can help in dealing with colic. It takes some time for parents and babies to get used to each other.

Tip #6: Take A Break

😌It can be difficult and stressful to care for babies who don’t stop crying. Remind yourself not to take the crying personally. Colic will go away. Most babies outgrow it by the time they are 4 months old and you will eventually have a perfectly cheerful baby.😊

😌Do you ever have experiences when you felt so troubled that you just needed to cry your heart out and to have someone there so you wouldn't feel so alone? And once you have done what you can to ease discomfort, you get on with life.

This is probably what your baby is going through right now. He or she needs your attention and that warm connection even while he or she cries.

😌When you’re feeling overwhelmed or frustrated and can’t calm yourself, put your baby down for a while. It helps babies to be held while they cry but not if the adult is experiencing extreme anger or anxiety.

😌Step outside for a moment or open the window, and breathe in some fresh air.

😌Ask someone close to you to help watch your baby and get out of the house.

😌Do whatever you need to do to calm yourself down and reassure yourself: "My baby is fine. I'm a good parent and this will soon pass.”

I am rooting for you, Mommy! 😎