Colic is not an uncommon problem for babies in the first few months of their lives. For parents of these babies, the experience is nothing but exhausting and challenging.
The next line of thought is to seek relief and this is often centered around sleep time because babies tend to show more troubled behavior around night time. Knowing the best sleeping positions for a colic Baby would bring your baby lots of ease.
In this article, we will be looking at the best sleeping positions for a Colic baby and how to stay on top of the situation as a parent.
What is Colic?
So let’s be clear on what Colic is. Colic is a condition where babies experience unease and express this by crying excessively. This often happens before they clock one.
The cause of colic remains unclear although it is assumed to be related to issues with digestion, gas, or the developing immune system. Babies with Colic often experience pain and discomfort making falling and staying asleep a challenge.
Why Is Colic Worse At Night? Why Is The Crying of Baby With Colic Often Worse At Night?
Colic can happen at anytime of the day. However, a lot of parents have complained of the crying worsening at night. The reason for this, just like the cause of colic is still unclear. Although, certain factors have been associated with this. Some of these factors include environment, metabolism and fatigue.
Nights are often quiet and calm in contrast to daytime. Infants receive stimuli in the form of sights and sounds which can be a source of comfort for them. Since babies are settling into the world here, the sudden change at night can be a source of discomfort. Hence, the reason why the crying episodes are more frequent at night.
Fatigue too has been speculated to be a reason for worse crying at nighttime. Infants have a developing nervous system and adjusting to their new world can be a stressful change. All the stimulation gotten during the day can be exhausting.
Evening time is often the time with the most digestive activity. This is due to the fact that the circadian rhythm of the body controls the creation and release of digestive hormones and enzymes. These processes are in full swing towards night time and can be a source of unease for babies.
The moods of parents and caregivers also play a role. Caregivers are more likely to be tired at night and this may lead to decreased energy levels and ability to response to the colicky baby. Exhaustion on the part of the parents or caregivers and discomfort for the baby can create tension can worsen the situation.
How Can I Help My Colic Baby Sleep At Night?
There are certain things you can do as a parent and caregiver to help your colic baby sleep at night. Here are some things that you can try:
Create a Calming Bedtime Routine
Bedtime routines have continuously been shown to help improve sleep quality. This can have wondrous effects on a colic baby. Routines should include soothing activities like soft music, a warm bath and gentle massage. It’s okay to stick to the same routine daily as a predictable routine can help prepare your baby for sleep.
Try White Noise or Shushing Sounds
Rhythmic sounds have a soothing effect on babies. You can use white noise machines or fan sounds to help create this ambience. It should help recreate an environment similar to what the baby was used to in the womb. Keep trying out different sounds still you discover what your baby prefers listening to.
Ensure a Calm Sleeping Environment
The sleep environment is an integral part of the baby’s sleep hygiene. Ensure the room is of the right lightning and temperature when it’s bed time.
Implement Gentle Movement
Movement can be helpful for some colic babies. You can try out different gentle movements like rocking, vibrating chair, or swaying.
Dietary Adjustments
Most infant rely on breast milk. Pay attention to the foods consumed by the breastfeeding parent as they can contribute to the baby’s situation. Foods to look out for include beans, broccoli, caffeine, dairy, or gas-inducing foods. Seeking a consultation with a pediatrician may provide you with dietary guidance to resolve symptoms.
Seek Support
It’s important to seek support because you have to stay strong for you to be able to help your baby. Connect with your friends and family and request for their support in caring for the baby. This can buy you some time to give yourself a break.
Best Sleeping Positions for Babies With Colic
Certain sleeping positions provide more comfort for babies with Colic. Some of these sleeping positions include:
On the back
This is by far the safest and recommended sleeping position for infants. Sleeping this way reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. For a colic baby, the lying on-the-back position, promotes proper airflow and reduces the pressure on the abdomen. This can offer a bit of relieve and comfort.
Elevated head
You can manage the colic symptoms by elevating the baby’s head as you put them to sleep. This position prevents acid reflux which could potentially cause more discomfort. Although, you must still ensure that the baby’s head and neck are carefully supported while they sleep. This is to prevent placing them in a position that could affect their health.
Side-lying position
The side-lying position can also be comforting for a colic baby. This lying position takes the pressure off the baby’s tummy and gives room for proper digestion. Although, this position can also be dangerous. Ensure that the baby’s airways are not obstructed when placing them in this position.
Tummy time during wakefulness
This sleeping position is not the safest but when supervised, it can offer the baby some relief. This position allows the baby to exercise their neck and shoulder muscles. This stimulation further helps in digestion and relief from colic symptoms.
Holding and rocking
Holding and rocking is very natural and comforting for babies. These gentle movements and close proximity to a caregiver can help calm the baby.
Read Also: Are sleeping Positioners Safe for Infants?
When Does Colic Stop In Babies
Colic naturally stops in babies unaided just like it started. It is a common issue babies face from around three weeks to eight weeks. As much as it is a stressful period for parents and baby, it should not be treated like a condition. You can view it like a milestone that your baby is crossing.
With that said, if you notice any unusual symptoms in addition to the crying, do not hesitate to see your pediatrician.
There is no standard time for the symptoms of colic to disappear so do not compare your baby’s situation to that of another. The best you can do is to understand your baby’s specific situation, learn what helps them soothe, and seek support for yourself.
How To Burp a Colic Baby?
In addition to the best sleeping positions for colic babies, burping is one of the soothing techniques that help colic babies get good sleep. Supported burping helps babies release trapped air or gas that may be causing discomfort. Here is a detailed guide on how to burp a colic baby:
Positioning
To burp a baby, you need to place the baby in the right position. The best position for burping is an upright position, leaning towards your chest. This way you can easily support the baby’s head and neck with your hand. Ensure that the baby rests their chin on your chest or shoulder. This helps to keep the oesophagus straight and allow easy flow of trapped air.
Gentle Patting
With one hand supporting the head and neck, use your second hand to pat the baby’s back gently. Do this is a rhythmic motion, from gentle strokes to more intense strokes. Focus on the middle of the back and the shoulder blades.
Rubbing Technique
Like strokes, circular motions work too. Find a spot midsection of the back, rub gently and then move in a circular motion from the lower back to the shoulders. This will provide stimulation for digestion and gas release.
Over-the-Shoulder Bounce
Bouncing also does a good job with stimulation. This method is simple. Support your baby’s head and neck, then bounce them over your shoulder gently. This will put slight pressure on the tummy and help trapped air move out.
Use Burping Aids
Burping aids can also help your baby burp. They include burp clothes, burp pats, and chairs which help in easing the process for the caregiver and the baby.
Read Also: How Many Burp Clothes Do I Need For Baby?
Sitting Position
The sitting position can be employed if the baby is old enough to sit. Use one hand to support the chest and the other to pat the back. This will force trapped air out.
It should be noted that burping a colic baby would take time as the air can only be released gradually. Feel free to try out different techniques in the process.
Read Also: How To Burp A Hard To Burp Baby
Conclusion
The colic phase can feel like forever but it would pass. It’s just a moment and your baby is easing into their new world. Familiarizing with the best sleeping positions for a colic baby will make sleep time a respite for you and your baby.
