Dealing with Baby Colic

Written by Amber Whitman-Currier

I know how it feels to have a baby with colic. My son had colic as a baby. I was so frustrated and truly didn’t know what to do. This happens when you are a new mother. Here, I will shed a little light on dealing with colic: Colic is defined as, a baby who cries without stopping to breathe in between. Nothing seems to calm them. There are several reasons for colic.

1. If you are breastfeeding, the baby could be gassy from what you eat. Some examples are cabbage, caffeine, and chocolate. Just changing your diet can help. 
2. If the baby is formula fed, just changing the brand of formula can help.
3. Changing the type of bottle can help in producing less gas entering the babies’ stomach.

Many methods have to be tried, while your patience ebbs. You can try to pick up the baby and cuddle them. Remember you can never spoil a baby by holding them too much.  I cannot tell you how many times I heard that. They need the closeness. Sometimes laying them on their back can reduce intestinal gas. Try different positions that work for your baby. Riding in a car, or a baby swing helps because colicky babies like movement. This worked for my son when he was small. Just driving around would help him and put him to sleep.

Singing can help for the soothing sound. Sticking to a routine is important, to keep them on schedule. Anti-gas drops help with gas bubbles. I preferred using Gripe Water. The most important thing parents can do is take a break. A baby with colic can be frustrating and stressful. The good news is colic usually ends at around 4 months. So for all you parents out there pulling out your hair just hang in there; the rewards are well worth it.