How to Calm a Colicky Baby

Parents of a newborn with colic frequently feel guilty, frustrated and anxious because nothing they do seems to calm their baby down. Although all babies cry, a baby with colic may howl, turn red and clench his fists during bouts of extreme distress that last at least three hours a day, three or more days a week for at least three weeks, according to the website Family Doctor. Pediatricians don't know what causes colic -- they do know, however, that the condition affects about one quarter of all babies, that it usually dissipates after about three months and that techniques exist to help get you and your baby get through this difficult time.

Things You'll Need

  • Electric bottle warmer
  • Baby formula

Instructions

  1. Feeding

    • 1

      Heat your baby's formula to the correct temperature using an electric bottle warmer. An electric bottle warmer ensures accuracy and consistency and typically takes only about six minutes, according to the website Baby Center. Use fresh formula for each feeding to avoid bacteria contamination. Shake the bottle after warming to ensure the temperature is uniform throughout the mixture.

    • 2

      Position your baby in an upright position while feeding. The website Family Doctor suggests that upright feeding can reduce infant gas.

    • 3

      Change your diet if you are breastfeeding. Eliminate spicy foods, citrus fruits or caffeine to see if these foods could be upsetting your baby. Although colic isn't necessarily caused by stomach upset in your baby, food can affect his comfort level.

    • 4

      Burp your baby frequently. Burping helps your baby release air trapped in his stomach that could be causing him gastrointestinal distress. Look for signs your baby may have gas such as squirming, crying or pulling away. Rubbing your baby's back not only releases gas, but comforts and soothes him.

    • 5

      Try a different brand of formula. Because some babies with colic may be sensitive to certain foods, such as soy, dairy, egg or wheat, according to MayoClinic.com, systematically try different formulas without each of these ingredients and note any changes.

    • 6

      Offer your baby a feeding every two hours. The Family Doctor website indicates more frequent, smaller feedings may help with colic. Record all diet and feeding patterns so you and your doctor can decide what works and what doesn't.

    Comforting

    • 7

      Rock your baby gently to soothe her when she's upset. Try sitting in a rocking chair with her or putting her in a cradle or infant swing. Put your baby in a car seat and enjoy a drive together or walk with her. Rock gently with your infant's head supported at all times.

    • 8

      Give your baby a warm bath to soothe and comfort him. After the bath, wrap him in soothing, soft clothing and baby blankets.

    • 9

      Use a pacifier, soft music or white noise to calm your baby down. Try different methods as one thing doesn't work for all babies.

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