Colic

7 months ago 19th Apr 15:33

Sucking - offer your baby a chance to suck on breast, bottle or dummy as this can be comforting.

Medication - always check with your doctor, pharmacist or health visitor before giving your baby any medications. Various over-the-counter preparations may help, such as herbal drinks, homeopathic drops, gripe water and baby colic medications. 'Colic dance' - while hugging your baby (some prefer to be held slightly away from your body to have eye contact) gently sway with your knees bent, alternating back and forward, side to side and up and down. Some babies like a low humming sound at the same time.

If your baby is 'colicy' in the evenings, make sure lunch is your main meal of the day and your main source of protein and energy. You'll need to keep your strength up.

Many parents find the stress of a 'colicy' baby becomes too much. Ensure you have support and are able to take a break. Try to share the crying times. You could also ask your health visitor if there are any local support groups for parents of crying babies.

If your baby's crying ever becomes more than you feel you can stand, pass the baby to someone else, or if you're alone, put him down safely in a cot or pram and go into another room where you can't hear the crying, so you can calm down before trying again.

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