Your Baby's Colic

Author: Karen Zastudil

Many parents become frustrated when their newborn develop colic.

The continuous screaming every night for hours on end, can't

help but be disturbing. New mothers often feel they must be

doing something wrong or worse yet that there is something wrong

with their baby.



Most new mothers are not aware that almost all babies develop a

fussy period and the actuality of colic is present in one form

or another. Colic is not an illness or a physical disorder.

Doctors define colic as 3 or more hours a day of continued

crying. The baby's persistent crying is generally not due to any

obvious signs such as: hunger, wet diaper, or gas, and in many

cases, the child cannot be comforted or soothed. There is good

news though, colic generally does not last beyond the first

three months!



Several studies that involved more than 12,000 babies have

indicated that mothers who smoke during pregnancy face almost

twice the risk of having a baby with colic. Exposure to second

hand smoke also appears to increase the risk for colic.



Parents dealing with a colicky baby need to be observant and

patient. Experimenting may be required to find ways to comfort

your baby. Holding your baby is notably the most effective way

to calm him.



Interestingly, one doctor commented that "the more hours they

are held, even early in the day when they are not fussy, the

less time they will be fussy in the evening." Holding your new

baby does not spoil your child! Swinging, rocking or singing

lullabyes can also be effective.



Over the years, there have been many stories about foods

breastfeeding mothers should avoid. What do the facts show?

Breastfeeding mothers who eat gas producing food DO NOT induce

gas or crying in their babies. The gas mothers may get from gas

producing food comes from the undigested part that remains in

their intestines. The portion that enters the blood stream and

then makes its way to the breastmilk is not the part that

produces the gas in the first place. It was mentioned that a

single glass of wine in the evening may be good for both mom and

baby. Foods that should be avoided would include caffeinated

beverages, chocolate, nuts and possibly some dairy products or

spices. Caring for a colicky baby can be exhausting for the

already worn out mom. Colic is no-ones fault, so don't burden

yourself with extra stress and guilt. Do your best to relax and

remember that your baby will outgrow it.



If you are ever unsure whether your baby's crying is colic or a

symptom of another illness, check with your pediatrician, by all

means!







About the author:

Karen is a graduate of of Cleveland State University and is a

freelance writer. Visit her website at

http://www.womenatthesummit.com - A site of general interest to

women. Topics include: Pregnancy, Children, Parenting, Health

and wellness, Diet and Fitness, Relationships, Money, Travel and

more.

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