15 Effective Colic Relief Techniques for Babies that New Parents Should Be Aware of
One of the most challenging experiences for new parents is dealing with a colicky baby. Colic is defined as episodes of excessive crying in an otherwise healthy infant, typically lasting more than three hours a day, at least three days a week, and lasting for at least three weeks. It often starts around two to three weeks of age and peaks around six weeks, before gradually subsiding by three to four months. While colic is a common condition and typically resolves on its own, it can be incredibly distressing for both the baby and the parents.
Colic remains somewhat of a mystery, as the exact cause is still unknown, but some potential contributing factors include digestive issues, food sensitivities, gas, and overstimulation. Fortunately, there are several techniques that new parents can use to help soothe a colicky baby. In this article, we will explore 15 effective colic relief techniques that can provide comfort and relief to babies while giving parents peace of mind.
1. The “Colic Carry” (Tummy-Down Carrying)
The colic carry, also known as the football hold, is one of the simplest and most effective ways to soothe a colicky baby. In this position, the baby lies tummy-down on the parent’s forearm, with the baby’s head resting in the crook of the parent’s elbow. The baby’s legs straddle the parent’s arm, and the parent uses their hand to gently support the baby’s bottom or chest. This position helps put gentle pressure on the baby’s abdomen, which can relieve gas and provide comfort.
Carrying your baby this way while gently rocking or patting their back can help relieve the discomfort associated with colic. The gentle pressure on the tummy may help to reduce bloating, gas, and discomfort, which are often contributing factors to colic.
2. Burping Regularly During and After Feeding
Gas buildup is a common trigger for colic in babies. When babies feed, whether through breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, they tend to swallow air, which can lead to discomfort if it gets trapped in their digestive system. Regular burping can help release the trapped gas and prevent colicky episodes.
To effectively burp your baby, hold them upright against your shoulder or sit them on your lap, supporting their chest and head with one hand while gently patting or rubbing their back with the other. Burp your baby during feeding breaks (after every two to three ounces if bottle-feeding) and immediately after feeding to reduce the chances of gas buildup.
3. Swaddling for Comfort
Swaddling is a time-tested method for soothing newborns, especially those with colic. By wrapping the baby snugly in a soft blanket with their arms at their sides, you create a womb-like environment that provides a sense of security and comfort. Swaddling can help reduce overstimulation and keep the baby calm.
Swaddling also helps prevent the Moro reflex, or startle reflex, which can cause the baby to wake up suddenly and start crying. Be sure to swaddle your baby securely but not too tightly, allowing enough room for the baby’s hips to move freely to prevent hip dysplasia.
4. Using White Noise or Sound Machines
Many babies find white noise soothing because it mimics the sounds they heard in the womb, such as the whooshing of blood flow or the steady beat of the mother’s heartbeat. White noise machines, fans, or even apps that play white noise can help calm a fussy baby by creating a calming environment.
You can also try other soothing sounds, such as rainfall, ocean waves, or lullabies. These sounds help drown out background noise and provide a soothing, rhythmic sound that may help babies relax and fall asleep.
5. Rocking and Swaying Movements
Babies are often comforted by gentle, rhythmic movements. Rocking, swaying, and bouncing motions can mimic the movement babies experienced while in the womb, which helps to calm them down during colic episodes.
Rocking chairs, baby swings, or simply holding your baby while gently swaying from side to side can provide much-needed relief. Some parents also find that taking a car ride or using a baby carrier and walking around helps to calm a colicky baby. The key is to maintain steady, soothing movements that can help the baby feel secure.
6. Pacifiers for Sucking Comfort
Sucking is a natural reflex for babies and can be very comforting. Pacifiers provide a great way to help calm a baby who is experiencing colic. The action of sucking can help the baby self-soothe and may relieve discomfort caused by colic.
While some parents may hesitate to introduce a pacifier due to concerns about nipple confusion or dependency, pacifiers can be a helpful tool for comforting a colicky baby, especially during periods of excessive crying. Just be mindful of using the pacifier to support, rather than replace, other soothing techniques like feeding or cuddling.
7. Baby Massage
Infant massage is a gentle and effective way to soothe a colicky baby by helping to relieve gas and digestive discomfort. Massage stimulates the baby’s digestive system, promotes relaxation, and enhances parent-baby bonding.
To massage your baby, use gentle, circular motions on their belly with the pads of your fingers, moving in a clockwise direction. This motion follows the natural path of digestion and can help release trapped gas. You can also gently massage the baby’s legs and feet to promote relaxation.
Using a small amount of baby-safe oil can make the massage more enjoyable for your baby. Regular infant massage can improve circulation and help reduce colic symptoms over time.
8. Probiotics for Gut Health
Some research suggests that an imbalance in gut bacteria could contribute to colic in infants. Introducing a probiotic supplement can help support healthy digestion and reduce colic symptoms. Lactobacillus reuteri, a strain of probiotic commonly found in infant probiotics, has been shown to reduce crying in colicky babies by improving gut flora balance.
Before introducing probiotics, consult your pediatrician to ensure they are appropriate for your baby and to determine the correct dosage. Probiotics can be given as drops or mixed into a small amount of breast milk or formula.
9. Warm Baths for Relaxation
A warm bath can help relax a colicky baby’s muscles and calm their nervous system. The soothing warmth of the water can also relieve gas and stomach discomfort, helping your baby feel more at ease.
After the bath, you can follow up with a gentle massage and swaddle your baby to create a cozy environment that encourages relaxation and sleep. Regular warm baths during colic episodes may become part of a calming bedtime routine that helps reduce fussiness.
10. Avoid Overstimulation
Newborns and young infants can become easily overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, and too much activity. Overstimulation is a common trigger for colic, especially in the late afternoon or evening. To help prevent colic episodes, create a calm and quiet environment for your baby, especially during feeding and naptime.
Dim the lights, lower the noise levels, and limit the number of people around the baby to help them feel more relaxed. A calm environment can help reduce sensory overload and may prevent excessive crying.
11. Colic-Relief Drops and Herbal Remedies
Many parents find relief for their babies through colic-relief drops or gripe water—a liquid herbal remedy designed to ease gas, indigestion, and colic in babies. Gripe water often contains a blend of herbs like fennel, ginger, and chamomile, which are thought to have soothing properties.
While gripe water and colic drops can be helpful for some babies, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician before using any herbal remedies to ensure they are safe for your baby.
12. Bicycle Legs Exercise
The bicycle legs exercise is a gentle technique that can help relieve gas and digestive discomfort in babies. To perform this exercise, lay your baby on their back and gently move their legs in a cycling motion, as if they are riding a bicycle. This movement helps release trapped gas in the intestines, which can reduce bloating and colic symptoms.
Doing the bicycle legs exercise for a few minutes during or after feeding can help improve digestion and prevent colicky episodes. It’s also a fun way to engage with your baby and promote physical activity.
13. Change Feeding Positions
Sometimes, the position in which a baby is fed can contribute to colic symptoms. Feeding your baby in an upright position can help reduce the amount of air they swallow, preventing gas buildup and digestive discomfort.
For breastfeeding moms, ensuring that your baby has a proper latch can reduce air intake during feeding. For bottle-feeding parents, using slow-flow nipples and holding the baby upright during feeding can help prevent excessive air swallowing.
Experimenting with different feeding positions may help alleviate colic symptoms and improve feeding comfort.
14. Dietary Changes for Breastfeeding Mothers
If you’re breastfeeding, certain foods in your diet may contribute to colic symptoms in your baby. Foods such as dairy products, caffeine, spicy foods, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower can sometimes cause gas and discomfort in babies.
If you suspect that your diet is affecting your baby’s colic, try eliminating potential trigger foods for a week or two to see if their symptoms improve. Be sure to consult with a lactation
consultant or your pediatrician before making any significant dietary changes to ensure that both you and your baby are getting the nutrients you need.
15. Seeking Support and Rest
Dealing with a colicky baby can be exhausting and emotionally draining for new parents. It’s important to seek support from your partner, family members, or friends to share the load. Sometimes, taking a break and allowing someone else to soothe the baby can make a significant difference.
In addition to seeking emotional and practical support, be sure to prioritize self-care. Rest when you can, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Caring for a colicky baby can be difficult, but you don’t have to go through it alone.
Conclusion
While colic is often a temporary phase, it can be incredibly challenging for both babies and parents. Fortunately, there are numerous colic relief techniques that can help ease your baby’s discomfort and make this phase more manageable. From soothing movements like rocking and swaddling to dietary changes and probiotics, these strategies can offer much-needed relief for your colicky baby.
As with any infant care technique, it’s important to experiment and see what works best for your baby. Remember that colic is not your fault, and with patience and persistence, you will find ways to soothe your baby and navigate this difficult time. Always consult with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your baby’s health or if their colic symptoms worsen or persist.
