Colic and reflux in your baby – what you really need to know (and what you don't)
Colic and reflux in your baby – what you really need to know (and what you don't)
If your baby cries a lot, stretches after a feed or is visibly uncomfortable, alarm bells will immediately start ringing. Especially if it recurs daily and is difficult to comfort. Intestinal cramps or reflux are then quickly mentioned. But what exactly are they? And – even more importantly – what can you do as a parent to help your child?
In this blog we share clear explanations, practical tips and loving insights. Based on 27 years of experience in neonatology and as a baby coach. No panic stories or outdated advice, but information that really helps you.
What exactly are intestinal cramps?
Colic is a period of inconsolable crying in babies, often without a medical cause. It usually begins in the second week and peaks around six weeks. Cause? Probably a combination of immature intestines and an overloaded nervous system. It usually goes away on its own around three months.
What is reflux in babies?
Reflux is when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. This often occurs in young babies because the sphincter muscle does not work properly yet. Sometimes you can see it in spitting up, sometimes it is 'quiet' with mainly restlessness or overstretching after feeding.
What can you do about intestinal cramps?
- Bringing peace and regularity to the day
- Clockwise abdominal massages
- Heat on the stomach with a hot water bottle (never directly on the skin)
- Using a baby sling for security and movement
- Using probiotics – read our blog about probiotics
A Wrap Snuggle helps with relaxation, boundaries and skin-to-skin contact, which has a regulating effect on the nervous system.
Tips for reflux complaints
- Feed your baby in an upright position
- Keep your baby upright for 20-30 minutes after feeding, or place him on his left side (this helps the food stay in the stomach best)
- Choose smaller portions spread throughout the day
- Wear soft clothing without tight straps – for example a merino wool sleepsuit
- Consider an inclined position of the mattress (only in a safe manner)
When should you be extra alert?
- 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
- When you can't take it anymore – you count too!
And what about nutrition?
There is no proven link between the mother's diet and colic in a healthy, full-term baby. Only if a cow's milk protein allergy is suspected, it may be useful to temporarily avoid dairy products - always in consultation.
When bottle feeding: choose a suitable food in consultation with the doctor, pay attention to the pace and use an anti-colic teat. Do you 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 will pass. Give yourself the space to learn, to try and to ask for help where necessary.
👉 Want to read everything again and get more tips? Download the free e-book about intestinal cramps and reflux full of extra information and practical advice.
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