Parenting is a wonderful and demanding journey. While most parents hope for a calm and content baby, it can happen that a baby cries a lot and is difficult to soothe. This can be an overwhelming and stressful experience for both parents and babies. In this blog, we will delve deeper into colicky babies, the possible causes, and effective tips for parents.
The possible causes of crying
Babies' crying is a natural form of communication. It is their way of expressing that they need attention, care, and comfort. However, with crying babies, they cry excessively, for long periods, and often without a clear reason. The causes of excessive crying can be complex. Let's discuss some of the possible causes in more detail, so that it can be examined what fits the picture of the frequently crying baby.
- Colic: Colic is a common cause of excessive crying in babies. It is characterized by intense and prolonged crying spells, usually in the evening hours. Although the exact cause of colic is unknown, it is believed that digestive problems, such as gas buildup, may play a role.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Babies with GERD, also called reflux, experience backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. This can cause pain and discomfort, especially during feeding, resulting in crying.
- Overstimulation: Some babies are more sensitive to stimuli and quickly become overwhelmed by their environment. Too much noise, lights, and activity can lead to crying spells.
- Skin problems: Babies with skin issues, such as diaper rash or eczema, can experience pain and irritation, leading to crying.
- Hunger: Insufficient feeding can lead to crying spells, so it is vital to ensure the baby is well fed.
- Too much or too frequent feeding: Excessive or too frequent feeding can cause digestive problems and discomfort, which causes crying.
- Stress in the environment or from the parents: Babies are sensitive to the mood and stress levels in their environment. Stressed parents can affect their baby and lead to more crying.
- Too little skin-to-skin contact: Skin-to-skin contact, where the baby is held directly on the parent's bare skin, is crucial for the sense of security and comfort. Insufficient skin-to-skin contact can lead to more crying.
- Fatigue: A tired baby can be more irritable and cry more often.
- Birth trauma: Traumatic experiences during delivery, such as compressions, can make the baby anxious and restless, leading to crying.
- Colic: Colic, also known as wind or stomach pain, can cause intense pain in babies and lead to crying spells. Read the blog "Colic in babies; recognition, causes, and tips" here.
Tips and advice
Dealing with a crying baby can be emotionally challenging. Here are some tips to help parents cope with crying babies:
- Comfort and soothe: It is essential to remain calm and patient. Comfort and soothe your baby by holding them in your arms, gently rocking, cuddling, and speaking to them in a loving voice. Hearing your voice can be reassuring.
- Check if the baby is eating too much, too often, or too little: Make sure your baby gets the right amount of food. Eating too much or too little can lead to crying. Follow your baby's feeding schedule closely. Consult a pediatrician if you have doubts about your baby's feeding schedule.
- In case of feeding with formula: Check for allergies or sensitivities, such as cow's milk allergy or lactose intolerance. Consider switching the type or brand of formula after consulting a pediatrician and/or the consultation office.
- Check for discomfort: Investigate possible sources of discomfort, such as diaper rash, tight clothing, too cold or too warm environment, and ensure a comfortable and safe environment.
- Skin-to-skin contact: Skin-to-skin contact between parent and baby has invaluable benefits. It can calm the baby, strengthen the parent-child bond, and positively influence the hormone balance of both parent and child.
- Bathing: A warm bath can be relaxing for both parent and baby. The warm water can help relax the baby's muscles and contribute to a calming atmosphere.
- Massaging with natural fragrance-free oils: Massage with natural oils, such as almond oil or coconut oil, can provide a relaxing and soothing experience for crying babies. Ensure a calm and warm environment, warm the oil in your hands, and use gentle, loving movements to massage the baby.
- White noise: Using white noise, such as the soft sound of a fan or flowing water, can have a calming effect on crying babies. It creates a consistent background sound that can mask other disturbing noises and give the baby a sense of comfort and safety.
- Swaddling: Swaddling your baby in a cloth or blanket can provide a sense of security and safety, which can help calm the baby and promote better sleep.
- As a parent, ensure relaxation: It is very important that parents also relax. Stress and tension in parents can affect the baby's mood. Take time for yourself occasionally to recharge and reduce stress, so you are able to care for your baby patiently and lovingly.
Consulting a pediatrician
If your baby's crying persists or is severe, do not hesitate to consult a pediatrician. There may be medical causes that need to be ruled out or treated.
Conclusion
It is understandable that the period of a crying baby can be intense and demanding for parents. The sleepless nights and constant crying can be tough, but it is vital to remember that this phase will pass. It is a temporary period in your child's life, and it is important to hold on to the thought that there is light at the end of the tunnel. It is a matter of continuing to search for the cause of the crying and finding a solution, rather than giving up. Keep your eyes on the point on the horizon, because the crying and stress will gradually decrease as your baby grows and develops.
Parenting is a challenge, but it is also a journey full of love and growth. Understanding your baby's needs and offering love and comfort are the keys to creating a strong bond between parent and child.
Don't be discouraged by the challenges of parenting, because with love, patience, and the right support, you can create a happy and healthy environment for you and your little one. Together you will grow and build an unbreakable bond that lasts a lifetime. Remember: this phase will pass, and a wonderful journey awaits you and your baby.