Vicki’s quick guide to wind and colic

Colic – what to look out for

Colic is defined as ‘severe griping pains in the abdomen’. No one really knows what causes it, and no one has developed a perfect way to treat it. Many newborns do seem to suffer from occasional tummy discomfort during the first six weeks or so, and often all it takes is a cuddle, a change of position, another burping session or a gentle tummy massage. And although we might not know what causes colic, we do know that it is not a serious condition (although it doesn’t seem that way when your baby is highly distressed!). Colic nearly always passes by the time your baby is three or four months old.

 

Is it colic or is your baby just over-tired?

Colic has been described as ‘uncontrollable crying for 3 hours a day, for 3 days a week, for 3 weeks or more’. This is known as the ‘rule of three’ and is used by some to diagnose colic. If a baby is fine during the day and just unsettled in the evening, this can be due to overtiredness. Some babies, however, do seem to suffer from a more severe form of tummy discomfort. Symptoms can included:

• Swollen abdomen

• Drawing up knees

• Screaming, high-pitched crying/screaming

• Inability to settle or sleep even with masses of cuddles and soothing

The attack of colic can be after every feed or just in the evening.

 

What helps?

  • Breastfeeding

The enzymes in breast milk help in the development of the gut, and breast milk is much easier for your baby to digest than formula milk.

  • Over-the-counter remedies

Some mums find these really helpful. Ask your pharmacist for a recommendation.

  • Routine

In the early weeks, a good routine can help your baby’s digestion – encourage him to take full feeds instead of snacking.

  • Anti-colic bottle valves

If you’re bottle-feeding, make sure you use a bottle that has been designed to allow your baby to suckle almost as at the breast. The best ones have valves that prevent air going into your baby’s tummy, and help your baby control the flow of milk.

See Dealing with Wind & Colic for a more in-depth look at coping with colic. 

Nutrition for babies

Breast milk is the best nutrition for babies. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of your baby's life. Breastfeeding can also continue during and beyond the introduction of solid foods.

When you are breastfeeding, good nutrition is vital for you and your baby. Continue with the healthy diet you were following during pregnancy and try not to skip meals.

Combining breast and bottle feeding can affect your breast milk supply.

If you decide not to breastfeed, this decision may be difficult to reverse if you change your mind.

For further advice on feeding options, always contact your health visitor or midwife.

*No.1 claim refers to Philips AVENT overall brand

Based on December 2010 TNS online satisfaction survey conducted among more than 10,000 female users of childcare brands and products in the USA, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain, Russia and China.

 

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