5 Tips to Soothe a Baby with Colic

Every parent's worse nightmare is a colicky baby. Hours of crying and screaming, little legs scrunched to their bellies, and you, the parent, helpless. Not only is this torture on the little one, but it sends yourself into tears as well. Colic is basically a scary word for a tummy ache. Something is wrong, and sometimes there are some things you can do to help it. Halleluiah!

In every family there is someone that has the "answer" to cure colic, but every baby is different and so is the root of the problem. There are things you can do to test and see if Baby gets any relief and in return you just might be able to get yourself some sleep!

Bicycle and Tummy Massage

Gently massage Baby's belly for a few minutes. Then, take his legs and make a bicycle motion with them. This may be able to get any gas moving and work it out. You can do this for quite some time.

Mylicon Drops (Gas Drops)

These can be purchased at any major grocery store or pharmacy. Follow directions on the dosage. They can be given directly through the dropper or put in the bottle. Try giving a dose right before bedtime.

Luke Warm Bath

Most babies love bath time. Try a 20 minute luke warm bath and massage Baby's belly with a warm cloth. This will probably only have a temporary effect, but it could give your nerves a rest.

Catnip Tea

Catnip tea has been used for decades to ease a baby's belly. It also has a sedative effective effect, so make sure and consult your pediatrician for amount and dosage.

Change Formula

Instead of switching from one milk-based formula to another or even soy, try a hypoallergenic, milk and lactose free one. These are available in all different brands and are usually a bit more expensive, but they can be life-savers. Parents have noted that within the first few feeding, Baby is already showing signs of being colic-free.

If your baby has colic, be aware that you are not alone. If you need a break, take one. Don't let yourself wear down so bad you are unable to give your baby what he needs, physically and emotionally. Ask for help. Colic does not last forever and usually dissipates at the three month mark. And remember, as much as you need the sleep, so does your baby. They are suffering right along with you and anything you can do to help them is a plus.