How to Soothe a Colicky Infant

One-fifth of all babies will develop colic, usually around the second and fourth week after birth, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Colic is characterized by long stretches of inconsolable crying, screaming, passing gas, and pulling the legs in and out. Although there̵7;s no definite reason why some babies get colic, if you find yourself in this position, you can try to soothe and calm your baby in a number of different ways.

Things You'll Need

  • Infant carrier, sling or wrap
  • Baby swing, vibrating seat, rocking chair or infant car seat
  • Swaddle blanket
  • Baby oil
  • Radio, clothes dryer or vacuum

Instructions

    • 1

      Cut out irritating foods from your diet if you̵7;re nursing. Milk products, soy, eggs, wheat products, onions, cabbage and caffeine may be causing your baby̵7;s discomfort. Although you may miss these foods temporarily, it is worth it if it stops the screaming.

    • 2

      Burp your baby during and after every feeding to cut down on air bubbles and gas. Avoid overfeeding.

    • 3

      Hold your baby close to your body or use an infant carrier, sling or wrap. As you move and walk around, the motion and closeness can be comforting to your little one. Gently swaying from side to side and singing can also help.

    • 4

      Swaddle your baby with a large, thin blanket. This works best for babies younger than 2 months old. After that age, the AAP points out that your baby will be moving around more and may try to roll over. It's safest to have his legs and arms free when he starts doing this.

    • 5

      Use a baby swing, vibrating seat, rocking chair or even a car ride to lull your baby.

    • 6

      Give your baby a gentle massage. Position your baby on your lap, belly down, and rub his back. During a diaper change, you can use a little baby oil and your fingertips to gently circle his belly button in a clockwise direction.

    • 7

      Turn on some white noise. A radio on low volume, clothes dryer and vacuuming in another room may help.

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