Soothing a Baby with Colic
There are few things more frustrating than a baby that cries and cries and cries. Unfortunately, babies with colic do exactly that; and whether or not it is caused by gas, sometimes all you can do is soothe the baby. There are many techniques that can help, and you should try the different methods to find the strategies best for your little baby.
Swaddling
WebMD suggests swaddling your baby. Use a blanket or a swaddling wrap around the baby. Many children find this very comforting and reminiscent of the womb. Remember that you should never put a baby to bed alone with a blanket, however, because it can be a choking hazard. Supervise the child at all times while swaddled.
Positioning
Consider how you are holding the baby and try the following position. Place the baby face down with your hand below her stomach. Use your forearm to support her head. This may help with gas pain.
Calming sounds
Different types of white noise can distract a baby. You could get a sound machine, a fan or a low volume mobile. A radio playing soothing music may also be of use.
Rocking
Many babies enjoy being rocked. Hold him or her in your arms and gently rock side to side or up and down. You can also go in a rocking chair or walk back and forth. Some also love the rocking swings you can buy. If you say “shhh” while you are rocking, this can help as well.
The car
Many babies with colic can be soothed to sleep with a car ride. The gentle rocking motion will place many to sleep. Make sure that you feel safe and awake enough to drive if it is late at night.
Massaging your baby
There are many books and even classes pertaining to baby massage. Just like adults, many babies enjoy being touched softly. Make sure that you are gentle.
Burp the baby
Your colicky baby night be crying because he or she has a lot of gas. Because babies swallow air when they cry, the situation may actually get worse and worse. You may be able to alleviate this by burping the baby. Try the different burping positions to see if one works better than others.
It is difficult to see your baby so sad, and soothing methods can help calm your baby. Try different methods to see what works best for you.