With the arrival of a newborn at home, many questions arise. Baby cries are often a source of stress for new parents who must learn to recognize them.
We don't always understand why baby cries and we worry that crying indicates discomfort in our child. It is important to remember that crying is normal; it is their way of communicating with us. When the need is met, the crying quickly stops. Just think about picking up baby when he cries; often the crying stops instantly.
On the other hand, it sometimes happens that despite all the hugs and care given to baby, the crying does not stop. Such a situation can create a lot of stress and anxiety. So it's important to talk about it. Evening crying is common in newborns. They occur in the evening before bedtime. They are often related to fatigue and with all the kisses and care given, the baby will eventually fall asleep. All babies go through a time when they cry more than any other time. Every baby is different. Be patient, cuddle baby… this difficult time will fade over time.weeks or first months.
Why do some babies cry more?
Some experts believe that babies who cry more than others have more sensitive temperaments and have difficulty controlling their crying. They may find it harder to comfort themselves and adjust to their body's natural rhythms when they are very young1.
In general, there is no indication that a baby who cries loudly and for a long time has bowel problems. There is no hard data to indicate that the problem is caused by gas or food allergies. In fact, crying infants swallow air, which they expel by regurgitating or burping. Because they tense and tighten the stomach muscles, they also push air out of the rectum2. Colic would therefore be part of normal baby development.
Babies may also cry because they experience muscle or joint discomfort such as torticollis. Be alert if baby cries when picked up or, if breastfeeding, drinks from one breast rather than the other.
What to do to comfort baby?
- Check if his basic needs are met; is he hungry? Cold? Hot? Is her diaper changed?
- Take it, rock it; babies need comfort;
- Swaddle it; the feeling of being cramped reproduces the intrauterine environment and secures the child;
- Keepbaby in a quiet environment;
- Hold it face down in the crook of your arm; this position soothes baby's discomfort.
At all times, keep calm and never shake your baby. Feel free to drop your child off in a safe place and take a few moments to calm down if you feel the need. Your baby needs a fit mum, so rest up and take care of your diet. Take the time to read and exercise. You need time to yourself to recharge your batteries. Ask for help if you feel overwhelmed. Your family, your friends and several volunteer resources can come and give you a little respite. Your he althcare professionals are also there to advise you. Do not hesitate to consult them. You can call anytime (24/7) LineParents 1-800-361-5085.
Can taking probiotics help?
According to some studies, the intestines of infants with colic contain less “good bacteria” than the intestines of other infants. Thus, the administration of probiotics could be effective in reducing your child's discomfort, even during the first weeks of life. Studies indicate that it is more effective in breastfed babies3. At all times, do not hesitate to consult a he alth professional for information and to ensure your child's state of he alth.
Can chiropractic help?
Chiropractic is a he alth profession that aims to recover and maintain human he alth through the interaction of the nervous, muscular and skeletal systems. The goal of chiropractic adjustment is to restore joint mobility to vertebral segments and reduce muscle spasms and inflammation.
In infants, the vertebral adjustment is done using the tip of the finger and the pressure exerted is very light, similar to a touch.
Through manipulations adapted to children, chiropractic care can restore joint mobility and soften the muscles.
No study yet demonstrates the effectiveness of chiropractic care and colic. In addition, relaxing baby's muscles through muscular work adapted to the child and restoring joint mobility can help relieve baby's discomfort. In fact, the intrauterine position and childbirth could have led to the appearance of muscle tension in your child's legs, stomach and back and caused him some discomfort. Some baby massage and relaxation techniques can be taught to you for the return home.
Normally, a few sessions are needed to determine if chiropractic care is helping your child. If no change is noted, the cause is quite different and it may be useful to consider anotherav. Some chiropractors have more training in chiropractic care for children. You can consult the site of the Quebec Association of Pediatric and Perinatal Chiropractic (AQCPP) to know them. Do not hesitate to consult them.
For more information, contact me!
