Our hearts go out to all parents dealing with this condition. We know and understand how very distressing colic can be, especially for first-time parents adjusting to their new roles. The inconsolable crying for hours at a time is exhausting for parents and everyone around them. Although the cause is unknown, there are ways to help calm your baby down. Just remember that all babies are comforted by different measures, so parents need to try various methods or a combination of methods to see what works best.
Swaddling is a time-tested technique proven to reduce colic and fussiness and helps babies sleep sounder and longer. Colic usually begins at 3 weeks and lasts through the first three to four months of life, making swaddling during this time essential. Babies with colic can be highly sensitive to their new environment; therefore it is critical for babies to be swaddled, which soothes them by recreating the sanctuary of the womb. The Snug & Tug ensures that your babies arms will stay snug alongside their body, so they are unable to startle themselves awake. Snug and Tug, the swaddling blanket that works is a newborn necessity!
We recommend reading ?The Happiest Baby on the Block? by Dr. Karp. This is a very informative book that details the importance of swaddling and other methods that can be used to soothe babies. Dr. Karp believes that swaddling is the cornerstone to calming your baby. He uses the 5 ??S?s?: Swaddling, Side/Stomach positioning, Shushing, Swinging and Sucking to produce a calming effect. These methods are highly effective when done right! He describes the process as a recipe for a layered cake, with swaddling as the first layer that sets the stage for a successful night!
It seems that the main problem with colic is the stress and anxiety it creates within the home. Parents can find it difficult to cope with the constant crying, so it?s important to find support and find ways to take a break from caring for your child. It is also important to be aware of the methods that can soothe your baby.
Many pediatricians also suggest the following, if your baby has colic;
Swaddling is a time-tested technique proven to reduce colic and fussiness and helps babies sleep sounder and longer. Colic usually begins at 3 weeks and lasts through the first three to four months of life, making swaddling during this time essential. Babies with colic can be highly sensitive to their new environment; therefore it is critical for babies to be swaddled, which soothes them by recreating the sanctuary of the womb. The Snug & Tug ensures that your babies arms will stay snug alongside their body, so they are unable to startle themselves awake. Snug and Tug, the swaddling blanket that works is a newborn necessity!
We recommend reading ?The Happiest Baby on the Block? by Dr. Karp. This is a very informative book that details the importance of swaddling and other methods that can be used to soothe babies. Dr. Karp believes that swaddling is the cornerstone to calming your baby. He uses the 5 ??S?s?: Swaddling, Side/Stomach positioning, Shushing, Swinging and Sucking to produce a calming effect. These methods are highly effective when done right! He describes the process as a recipe for a layered cake, with swaddling as the first layer that sets the stage for a successful night!
It seems that the main problem with colic is the stress and anxiety it creates within the home. Parents can find it difficult to cope with the constant crying, so it?s important to find support and find ways to take a break from caring for your child. It is also important to be aware of the methods that can soothe your baby.
Many pediatricians also suggest the following, if your baby has colic;
If bottle-fed, check the formula you are using - ask for recommendations from your doctor, check the position of the bottle when feeding, babies can swallow air from the bottle making them gassy, or use a bottle designed to reduce the amount of air the baby swallows during a feed.
If breast-fed, check your diet - certain foods can make colic worse and check your dairy intake as your baby may be lactose intolerant. Remove foods and dairy from your diet and the reintroduce foods one at time to find the culprit.
Burp frequently, don't be afraid to hold the baby in different positions: over the shoulder, sitting on your lap or lying across your legs. The pressure on their belly can provide gas relief.
Movement seems to soothe babies with colic-- you can carry the baby in a front sling, back pack, place the baby in a baby swing, go for a car ride or a walk outside.
Continuous white noise, vibrations, or music can also help soothe your baby.
