Parenting through the first few months of a child’s life, can be rather challenging. Mothers and fathers normally take the first few months forming a bond with the little one, as well as coping with the added obligation of taking care of a newborn. Having said that, there are instances that caring for your little one may be really hard.
An infant who is crying inconsolably for a long time may have colic. Colic is paroxysmal abdominal discomfort which occurs in 3 month old infants or younger. A baby with colic may cry loudly, with the legs pulled up against the abdomen, and fists clenched. An infant’s face may additionally be red and flushed, and the abdomen is tense. You may observe that your child may have colic at roughly the same time everyday. It generally endures up to 3 hours per day and happens at least 3 days every week.
Colic is common and it affects close to 25 % of infants. It usually begins a few weeks after birth, and improves by the time the child turns 3 months old. Nevertheless, there are infants who may endure from colic for a few more months. But it typically ends for 90 percent of infants by the time babies turn 9 months old.
The cause of colic remains unclear, but overfed infants are susceptible to having it. Infants who are formula fed are also more likely to have colic since they tend to swallow more air during a feeding. A formula that is high in carbohydrates may also cause colic. Research has also proven that it may also be brought on by allergies, an immature digestive system, maternal anxiety, lactose intolerance and differences in the way that the baby is fed.
Colic is bothersome for babies and it might be frustrating for parents however, there are techniques to soothe a child with colic. Babies will benefit greatly from small feedings whether or not they are breastfed or formula-fed. Infants must also be burped often. Placing the baby in an infant chair, or in an upright position, for half an hour right after a feeding can also help. To make feedings more satisfying, have your little one empty one breast entirely just before you switch to the next side. Doing so should allow your child to get more hindmilk. It is richer and more fulfilling than foremilk, which is present at the beginning of a feeding.
Pacifiers can additionally assist in soothing your child. Cuddling is encouraged because infants need comfort, and they significantly respond to affection. Utilizing infant slings or infant carriers are helpful in supporting your child’s weight. Keeping your baby in motion is also essential. One can either rock your child in your arms, or use an infant swing. Your infant may also benefit if you take him for a ride. Be sure that you buckle your infant properly in the car seat in order to be safe. Breastfeeding moms also need to watch their diet by avoiding foods, that promote gas formation.
A soothing song may also help a colicky infant. Your infant may be comforted by the sound of lullabies or any soft song. There are studies that show that infants are comforted by the sound of a heartbeat, which is why music boxes are commercially obtainable to simulate the sound. However, a tick of a clock may also do the trick. One can also be creative and record environmental sounds similar to ocean waves and gentle rain. These may assist in relaxing your child.
If you feel that your infant is not sleeping and not feeding as usual, it may be best to get in touch with your health care provider. It is important that your medical doctor can evaluate whether your little one has colic, or if he must do more tests to determine any other illness. Infants can be difficult to comfort throughout colic episodes. And though it may be a difficult beginning for a parent-child relationship, it will soon come to pass. Parenting can be demanding at times, but it is surely very rewarding.