Babies may have a hard time passing gas on their own, leading to fussing and colic. The best relief comes from Mom and Dad, who can do a few things to help. Some easy ways to help soothe and help release the gas include applying a light pressure on an infant's tummy, or lying the baby on his back and moving his legs in a bicycle peddling motion. Look for signs that your infant has gas, so that you'll know what to do when it happen.
Crankiness & Crying
It is tough to decipher a baby's needs, since crying is their only means of communication. Gas pains make a baby fussy, but rule out other options first. Consider whether the baby is tired, hungry, in need of a diaper change or simply wants to be held. If none of those seem to apply and the crying persists, your infant may have gas pains.
Pulling Legs Up
Though controlled movement is limited in small babies, they may move in a way to try to relieve themselves of gas. Watch for a baby pulling her legs in toward her chest and then pushing them straight out, usually while upset.
Lying In a Curled Position
Babies might curl up on their side to try to relieve gas. They often revert to a fetal position to help their stomachs get rid of pressure. Again, they may be cranky and crying while in this position.
