Infant Colic
All babies cry as a way of communicating with us. However, there is nothing more upsetting than a newborn baby who won’t stop crying. A baby who cries inconsolably for hours even after being fed, changed, burped and cuddled is said to have COLIC. It is important for new parents to visit the baby’s doctor to rule out any other medical problems.
What do we know about colic?
No one really seems to know what causes colic. Colic usually starts about 2 or 3 weeks after birth and finally stops when the baby is about 3-4 months of age. For a baby to be called colicky, it is necessary that he be gaining weight well and be otherwise healthy.
What makes a baby fussy?
- Babies who are not held often enough tend to be fussy. You cannot spoil your baby by picking her up.
- Babies who are exposed to tobacco smoke tend to be more cranky than those who are not. If you smoke, always smoke outside; your baby will cry much less.
- If your breastfed baby is going through a fussy period, then it may help to nurse on only one side each feeding. It is a good idea to get some breastfeeding support from the Public Health Nurses at the Breastfeeding Drop-In’s, from Lactation Consultants, or the La Leche League.
- If the baby is formula fed, you may wish to speak to the baby’s physician about the type of formula the baby is receiving.
What can you do if your baby has colic?
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- When your baby cries, pick him up in a gentle, soothing manner. Even if the crying does not stop, it is reassuring for the baby to know that you are there.
- Hold the baby close to you in an infant snugly-type carrier. The tummy to tummy warmth seems to relax some babies.
- Lower the noise and light levels. A steady, smooth vibration or repetitive sound from a vacuum cleaner or dishwasher helps quiet some infants.
- Some babies calm down in their car seat in a moving car. Others settle well by being walked, or rocked in a rocking chair or a baby swing.
- Take turns with your partner or other supportive family/friends to carry the baby during the fussy times. Get help with housework and other child-care responsibilities. You need to focus your energies on your baby.
- Talk to other parents who have had colicky or fussy babies.
- Rest as much as you can when the baby is asleep. Colic is very tiring and overwhelming for parents.
- If you are feeling stressed and on your own, put the baby in his/her crib for a few minutes until you feel more in control or can get someone to help. Never shake a baby.
For further information, call Ottawa Public Health Information 613-580-6744 / Toll free 1-866-426-8885
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