A challenge a lot of parents face with a new baby is colic or fussiness! If you’ve found yourself at the mercy of relentless cries and seemingly unexplainable, exhausting discomfort (or you just want to plan ahead, just in case), fear not!

In this blog post, I’m sharing…

-How to identify if your baby has colic

-Effective strategies to navigate this trying phase

-Tips to soothe your baby

-How to take care of yourself when your baby won’t stop crying.

Is It Colic or Something Else?

You’re not alone in wondering whether your baby’s fussiness is due to colic or something entirely different!

Colic is typically defined as intense, inconsolable crying in a healthy baby, that lasts for at least three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks or more. However, it’s essential to rule out other potential causes of fussiness, such as hunger, discomfort, gas, or illness.

If you suspect colic, it’s always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician to confirm the diagnosis and ensure there are no underlying issues.

What Causes Colic?

While the exact cause of colic remains a mystery, several factors may contribute to its development. These can include gastrointestinal issues, an immature digestive system, sensitivity to stimulation, or even parental stress transferring to the baby.

It’s important to remember that colic is not caused by something you did or didn’t do as a parent! It’s just a phase that many babies go through and will eventually grow out of!

Source:

*https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colic/symptoms-causes/syc-20371074

Riding the Waves of Colic: Tips for Soothing Your Baby

Finding effective ways to soothe a colicky baby can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. There are strategies that may provide some relief. Just remember that some may work and some may not, and its all dependent on your baby!

Sometimes, simply holding and gently rocking your baby can help soothe them. Babies often find the rhythmic motion comforting, which might help alleviate some of their distress.

Swaddling can provide a sense of security and warmth for your baby, which may help to soothe them.

Some babies find white noise, such as the sound of a fan or a white noise machine, soothing. It’s thought that this can replicate the constant noise they were used to in the womb!

A warm bath can be soothing and may help to relieve some of the discomfort associated with colic.

Massaging your baby’s belly in a gentle, clockwise motion might help to relieve some of the tension and discomfort. ALWAYS be gentle and watch your baby’s reactions to make sure they’re tolerating it okay.

Gently moving your baby’s legs in a bicycle motion can help to relieve gas, which is often a contributor to colic.

Sometimes, adjusting your feeding position can help to minimize the amount of air your baby swallows, which can reduce gas and potentially alleviate some of the symptoms of colic.

Smaller, more frequent feedings can help prevent your baby’s stomach from getting too full, which can cause discomfort. Burping your baby regularly can also help to relieve any built-up gas.

Sucking on a binky can provide a calming effect for many babies, too!

Some babies find being carried in a sling or baby carrier soothing. The close contact can be comforting, the smell of mom or dad, and the movement may help to calm them.

Consider talking to your doctor about using gas drops, too!

Experiment with different soothing techniques to find what works best for your baby. Each baby will have different things that helps them! I always like to remember and remind any mommas i talk to that your baby is not just a number to doctors, but a unique human being with unique preferences and growth patterns!

Seeking Support: Finding Comfort in Community

Reach out to fellow parents, join online support groups or local parenting communities, and share your experiences. Connecting with others who understand firsthand what you’re going through can provide immense comfort and valuable insights!

I have been to breastfeeding groups and they helped me so much! I’m a huge advocate for finding a local group to seek free help and support in between doctor visits.

Self-Care for Sanity: Taking Care of Yourself

Caring for a colicky baby can be emotionally and physically draining, leaving you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. It’s crucial to prioritize self-care during this challenging time! Take breaks when you can, lean on your support system for help, and don’t forget to prioritize your own well-being!

Whether it’s taking a relaxing bath, a walk in nature, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a cup of tea, finding small pockets of time to do some self-care can make a world of difference in your ability to cope!

If you’re in the Longmont/NoCo/Firestone area and are interested in hiring a postpartum doula, i have an amazing recommendation! Her name is Emily Vlietstra with http://emboldenbirth.com/! If you’re interested in getting to know a little bit about her and how she can help, checkout the blog post i did with her here: The Ultimate Guide to Postpartum Doulas in Longmont, CO!

Remember, the colic stage won’t last forever. I know it can feel like it will never end, right now though! You’re doing an incredible job, and every effort you’re putting in right now is going to make a difference in the long run. One foot in front of the other, minute by minute, second by second! Take deep breaths and keep trying different soothing techniques, reach out for support when you need it, and don’t forget to take care of yourself too! Soon, this challenging phase will be just a memory.

And hey, why not check out some of my other blog posts on pregnancy and motherhood in Longmont?

Longmont Newborn Photographer Shares 6 Eye-Opening Truths About the Early Postpartum Days!

Why Booking Your Maternity AND Newborn Sessions in Longmont Just Makes Sense (Especially for Mommas!)

I hope reading “Understanding Colic and How It Affects Your Baby: What Every New Parent Needs to Know From A Longmont Mom and Newborn Photographer” has given you some solid ideas on how to help ease the discomfort of Colic for mom and baby! If you’re still looking for a Longmont, Colorado Maternity and Newborn Photographer, click here to see my portfolio for my In-Home Newborn Sessions!