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Managing a fussy baby is every mom’s worst fear. There are few challenges that can throw a new mom out more than colic and reflux. Having a fussy baby who simply won’t settle is very disconcerting. You will find yourself grappling for answers as you try to understand why they’re crying and what they need.
I believe that when it comes to colic and fussing, it’s worth trying an array of strategies to prevent colic and settle your baby. Everything from visits to the baby chiropractor to lactase enzymes and spacing feeds to frequent day sleeps can make a difference.
When your baby is already crying, soothing techniques work wonders. Dummies are fabulous, baby massage can be soothing, and swaddling is a life-saver. But for me, one of the best strategies for managing a fussy baby is baby wearing.
Colic or reflux? Is there a difference?
When our little ones are hard to settle, we tend to immediately assume there is a medical reason for their unhappiness. The possibility of reflux is often cause for a trip to the pediatrician. But what presents as reflux is commonly colic which is not a physical illness but more a symptom of overstimulation.
A fussy newborn is often a baby who is easily over-stimulated and an excellent way to soothe a fractious over-stimulated baby is put them in a carrier. Carriers like the SnuggleRoo create a quiet sensory space. Much like the womb, carriers provide that deep pressure, skin to skin sensation, the familiar smell of mom and of course, lulling movement.
Managing a fussy baby with sensory personalities
Colic usually occurs in the late afternoon and early evening, when a baby’s thresholds for sensory input are low. This is a good time to pop your little one in a carrier and pace the passage or take a walk. (It’s good for mom too!)
What to do if you little one is has been diagnosed with reflux? Reflux babies prefer an upright position, especially after feeds. Another reason why baby carriers will be one of your most precious investments as a new parent. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, the sensation whilst in a SnuggleRoo is comforting and decreases the amount of reflux by easing pressure on the tummy valve.
Along with a dummy, a womb-like carrier is a must in your toolbox as a new mom. Another essential for a new parent is Parent Sense. It’s the all in one baby app that helps you know what your baby needs and when. Download the app now and track your baby’s feeds, sleep and development for free. Or subscribe to unlock all the features and benefits of parenting with sense!
