Infant massage has become popular with parents and health-care providers. Many have found that it is useful in encouraging bonding between parent and child. Infant massage can also sometimes help relax and calm a fussy baby, as well as aid babies is releasing built-up gas that may be causing discomfort. Many parents favor this non-invasive and relaxing technique of gas relief over the use of medications.
Step 1
Place your child on a towel in a quiet and comfortable space.
Step 2
Undress your child down to her diaper. Leave her diaper on, because babies often have a bowel movement during this type of massage.
Step 3
Cover your hands in a thin layer of massage or olive oil, if you have chosen to use either during the massage. While not necessary, the use of oils will make your motions more fluid.
Step 4
Place one hand on your child's abdomen and move your hand slowly in a clockwise, circular motion around her stomach. Continue as long as your baby will tolerate it, or until she passes the gas or has a bowel movement.
Tips and Warnings
- If you find that the massage is not effective, relieve the gas by gently bending your child's legs at the knee and raising and lowering them toward her chest repeatedly. You can alternate legs in a bicycle motion or raise both at the same time.
- Contact your child's pediatrician if she has chronic or painful gas. While some gas in infants is normal, painful gas can be caused by an underlying problem, such as a food allergy.
Things You'll Need
- Towel
- Infant massage oil or olive oil (optional)
