Colic and reflux in your baby – what you really need to know (and what not)
When your baby cries a lot, arches their back after feeding or is visibly uncomfortable, alarm bells start ringing immediately. Especially when it happens daily and is difficult to soothe. Colic or reflux are quickly mentioned. But what exactly are they? And — more importantly — what can you as a parent do to help your little one?
In this article I give you clear explanations, practical tips and loving insights. Based on 28 years of experience in neonatology and as a baby coach. No panic stories or outdated advice, but information that really helps you forward.
What exactly is colic?
Colic is periods of inconsolable crying in babies, often without a medical cause. It usually starts in the second week and peaks around six weeks. The cause? Probably a combination of immature intestines and an overstimulated nervous system. Around three months it usually disappears on its own.
What is reflux in babies?
With reflux, stomach contents flow back into the oesophagus. This is common in young babies because the sphincter muscle is not yet working properly. Sometimes you can see it through spitting up, sometimes it is "silent" with mainly restlessness or arching after feeding.
What can you do about colic?
Bringing structure and calm to the day helps regulate your baby's nervous system. Clockwise tummy massages gently stimulate bowel activity. Warmth on the tummy with a heat pack can provide relief — but never directly on the skin. A baby carrier provides security and movement which can ease colic. And probiotics can be supportive — read more in our blog about probiotics for babies.
A Wrap Snuggle helps with relaxation, containment and skin-to-skin contact which has a regulating effect on the nervous system.
Tips for reflux
Feed your baby in an upright position and keep them upright for 20–30 minutes after feeding, or place them on their left side — this way the feed stays in the stomach best. Choose smaller portions spread throughout the day. Make sure clothing is soft without tight bands — a merino wool sleep suit is ideal for this because merino wool is soft, breathable and temperature-regulating. Also consider a slight incline of the mattress, but only in a safe way.
When should you be extra alert?
There are some signals where you should always contact your doctor or health visitor: projectile vomiting or very frequent spitting up, poor growth or weight loss, crying day and night without a break, shortness of breath, blue lips or wheezing. And — very importantly — if you can no longer cope. You matter too.
What about feeding?
There is NO proven link between a mother's diet and colic in a healthy, full-term baby. Only if a cow's milk protein allergy is suspected can it be useful to temporarily avoid dairy — always in consultation with your doctor.
For bottle feeding: choose a suitable formula in consultation with your doctor, pay attention to the pace and use an anti-colic teat. Want to know more about body language during feeding or do you suspect bottle aversion? Then download the e-book First Aid for Bottle Aversion.
Conclusion: it gets better — really
Reflux and colic are hard — for your baby and for you. But they pass. Give yourself the space to learn, to try and to ask for help where needed.
Want to read everything at your own pace and find more tips? Download the e-book about colic and reflux full of extra information and practical advice.
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