Many new parents feel helpless when their new baby cries, and try everything to soothe their fussy little one. But what if nothing works, and your baby cries and cries with no relief? Colic is defined as excessive crying for more than three hours each day, more than three days each week for a minimum of three weeks. The Nemours Foundation notes that as many as 40 percent of all babies deal with colic.
So what's an exhausted parent to do? There are a number of things you can try to help soothe a colicky baby.
Step 1
Check for the baby's basic needs. Make sure that your baby doesn't need to be changed or fed, but don't force it if your baby isn't hungry. Look for any signs that your baby feels unwell. Signs include the inability to suck, discomfort when being held, diarrhea or vomiting. Try burping your baby--gas could be the culprit behind the fussiness and excessive crying.
Step 2
Sometimes, your child just needs a little movement to be soothed. Get up and walk around your house holding your colicky baby in your arms, or try cuddling up together in a rocking chair. Make use of those great baby shower gifts and put your baby in an infant swing or a vibrating bouncy seat. Many babies find a simple ride in the car soothing, so strap the baby safely in a car seat and go for a drive around the block. Alternatively, you could strap the baby in a stroller and head out for a nice walk outdoors.
Step 3
Make some noise. Sometimes, the world is just too quiet for a newborn who's used to all the noises going on in mom's belly. Try using a white noise machine, or simply running a vacuum to soothe a colicky baby. Invest in some soothing music CDs and play them to calm the baby down.
Step 4
Remove stimulation. Some babies can get overstimulated by all the goings on, and the bright lights and loud noises can overwhelm them. Sit with a colicky baby in a dark, quiet room and see if that helps ease fussiness and helps baby relax.
Step 5
Soothe with comfort. A nice warm bath can help you relax, so why not try it for a colicky baby? You can also try to give your baby a pacifier to suck on. Or, suggests the AAFP, give your baby a nice soothing rub on the belly or the back. Many babies are most comfortable when they're wrapped up tight in a receiving blanket or special swaddling blanket. Feeling all cozy and tight can remind them of being in the womb, and help them to calm down.
Tips and Warnings
- Colic often goes away by about the age of 3 months. So although it's difficult to deal with, parents should know that there is usually an end in sight.
- Call your doctor if you suspect that your baby may be ill or if anything could be hurting your baby.
Things You'll Need
- Rocking chair
- Infant swing
- Bouncy seat
- Car seat
- Soothing Music
- Swaddling blanket
- Dark room
