I remember when my daughter was born – she came out screaming. However, from that moment until age five months, she NEVER cried. Seriously, whether having a dirty diaper, being hungry, or wanting to be held, she simply did not cry. I remember asking my doctor what was wrong. His response, “You’ve been blessed with a happy, healthy baby.” However, one Sunday, she started screaming non-stop. When I picked her up, she was so hot. Her temperature was 104.5, which prompted a trip to the emergency room. After examination and testing, it was discovered four days of constipation had created a high toxic buildup. She was given something to help her have a bowel movement, at which time her fever broke.
Then, I wondered what I would do if my baby cried often or a lot – how would I cope? Well, my daughter soon learned that crying had its advantages. Although she was never much of a crier after that point, she did start crying. For some mothers, a crying baby is a day in, day out experience. In addition to the concern for the baby, this type of crying can be very hard for the parent to cope. When my son was born, I soon discovered what “coping” meant. He was opposite from my daughter, quiet at birth but then very vocal.
Okay, so what can you do if you have a crying baby? We have pulled some great tips together that have proven successful for many mothers. A great tip, after checking the diaper and feeding, is to place your baby tummy down on your lap, gently bobbing your knees up and down. With his or her head supported, pat him on the back while singing or talking. For some reason, this position works amazingly well.
Another option to help cope with a crying baby is a soothing bath (for you and baby). Filling the tub with the appropriate temperature water, sit in the tub with your baby, face to face. Slowly, rub the head, the back, and the tummy, making the experience fun. In addition to teaching your baby that a bath is a positive time, you are also providing him or her with some needed one-on-one time in a calming environment. While the crying will stop, you too will find that you feel more relaxed.
Next, swaddle your baby, creating a sense of security. Sometimes, babies will feel nervous or insecure when having the ability to move about freely. With a comfortable blanket, wrap him or her up tightly, and then rock the baby. Something about keeping the baby close and swaddled helps. There are times when babies feel constrained, not liking the swaddling but it is certainly a great thing to try. Finally, after bath time, use a little bit of baby lotion, giving your baby a massage. For this, you want to be very gentle but rubbing the back in a rhythmic motion can be extremely soothing. In addition to creating a serene environment, the massage will also help with any aches or tension. In fact, a baby massage has become a popular method used for babies with colic because it is so beneficial.