Colic can be challenging for both your baby and you. Fortunately, there are solutions to ease those seemingly unending cries. In this guide, we present 10 simple and effective tips to naturally soothe your baby’s colic.
Use a Baby Heating Pad
Warmth can relieve your baby’s abdominal pain, and using a heating pad is an excellent way to warm up that area of their body. However, it’s important to use a model suited to your infant’s anatomy to help relax their abdominal muscles. The baby heating pad with belt offered at Hello Hippo is perfectly designed to soothe little ones after a bout of colic.
To use it, simply place the cherry pit pouch in the microwave for 2 minutes at 350 W. You can also heat it in a preheated oven at 150°C for 15 minutes. This pouch provides the heat for the pad, but before applying it, be sure to check that it is at the right temperature.
Once it’s safe, wrap the belt around your baby’s belly and adjust it for optimal support. You can also use the Velcro fastening to secure it safely. For easy maintenance, just remove the fabric cover and machine wash it according to the care instructions for impeccable hygiene.
Massage Your Baby’s Belly
To calm colic, a gentle belly massage can sometimes work wonders. Gently massaging your baby’s abdomen in a circular, clockwise motion with your fingers can provide relief. This technique stimulates the digestive system and eases tension. For an enhanced massage experience, you can apply a little sesame oil to your baby’s tummy.
Rock Your Baby on Your Forearm
Little ones love to be rocked. Placing your baby face down on your forearm— with their head cradled in your hand and their limbs dangling—can help ease colic pain. In this position, the gentle pressure on your baby’s abdomen works to relieve their discomfort.
Practice Skin-to-Skin Contact
An exceptionally effective remedy to soothe colic is skin-to-skin contact. The warmth of your body in contact with your baby’s skin can calm them, easing stomach pain and helping them relax to release trapped gas.
Give Your Baby a Few Drops of Organic Green Clay
An old grandmother’s trick for calming colic, which has proven effective, is to give your baby a few drops of organic green clay. However, the powder should not be given directly. To avoid any risk, let one spoonful of clay settle in a glass of water for an entire night or day. Then, administer a few sips of the clay water to your baby with a dropper before feeding.
Create a Calm Environment
Little ones are very sensitive to external stimuli and their surroundings. They can even sense the emotions of those around them. Therefore, to soothe colic episodes, place your baby in a quiet space with soft lighting. Additionally, we offer a customizable LED night light that can transform your baby’s room into a serene space. This calming addition helps rock your baby even more easily. For more tips, check out our article on 10 tips for creating a soothing baby room.
Soothe Your Baby’s Colic with the Right Bottle and Milk
Choosing a milk that isn’t suited to your infant can cause intestinal discomfort and lead to colic. If you’re having trouble finding the right lactose formula for your child, consult a pediatrician. They can determine the best treatment for the abdominal issues causing your baby’s colic. Moreover, Hello Hippo offers a compact bottle warmer to ensure your baby enjoys a warm meal at any time.
Treat Your Baby’s Colic with Dietary Supplements
Certain dietary supplements specifically formulated for infants can help relieve colic by promoting better digestion. For example, probiotics designed for babies help balance their intestinal flora, reducing gas and abdominal discomfort. Always consult a pediatrician before introducing any dietary supplement to ensure it is appropriate for your child’s age and specific needs. Additionally, you might want to learn about the 10 essential foods for successful weaning to further reduce the risk of colic.
Use a Warm Bath and Comfortable Clothing
A warm bath can relax your baby’s muscles and soothe their cries. Add a few drops of an oil suitable for babies for an even more calming effect. Furthermore, overly tight clothing can worsen colic by putting pressure on your baby’s abdomen. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that won’t constrict your baby’s tummy.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
If colic persists or your baby appears particularly uncomfortable, do not hesitate to consult a pediatrician or a specialized osteopath. These professionals can offer tailored solutions.