Navigating Colic: Tips from a Sleep Consultant
As a sleep consultant, I have encountered numerous challenges that parents face when trying to help their little ones drift off to sleep. One of the most common and distressing issues is colic, a condition that can disrupt both a baby's sleep and their parents' peace of mind. This is a serious condition that can effect babies under 12 weeks of age. In this blog, we'll delve into the world of colic from a sleep consultant's perspective and offer valuable tips to ease your baby into a restful sleep.
Understanding Colic:
Colic is often described as excessive, inconsolable crying in an otherwise healthy and well-fed baby. It typically starts around the second or third week of life and peaks at around six weeks, gradually resolving by the fourth. The exact cause of colic remains unknown, but factors such as gastrointestinal discomfort, oversensitivity, and immaturity of the nervous system may contribute. Colic can also be one of two serious conditions: GORD or GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease). Both of these have serious symptoms including: weight loss, bloody vomit, feeding difficulty and a few others. If your baby has these symptoms, they need to be seen by a doctor.
If your baby is having long crying spells, minor spills and having difficulty settling to sleep, then I can help. If the tips below do not help, seek medical advice.
Tips for Soothing a Colicky Baby to Sleep:
Create a de-stress zone: When our babies experience Colic, their sympathetic nervous system is in hyperdrive. Let’s calm their environment down by taking them to a space with white noise, low lights and minimal other people around will support them in feeling calm.
Swaddle or carrier: Putting your little one in a swaddle or a carrier will help to active their calm reflex. If the episode is happening indoors, take a stroll outside with them in the carrier. Often a change of scenery will support them in being distracted enough to calm down.
Skin on Skin: Sometimes our babies need to go back to basics. Strip them off and get in the bath or shower with them. The loud shower noise will act like white noise and support them in calming down. Add in a bottle or a breast feed for an added calming effect.
Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine: Start with a calming bedtime routine to signal to your baby that it's time to wind down. This may include a warm bath, gentle massage, or soft lullabies. Consistency is key, as it helps create a predictable environment for your baby.
Comfortable Sleeping Environment: Ensure that your baby's sleep space is conducive to rest. Keep the room dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature. Soft, breathable bedding and a snug swaddle can provide a sense of security.
Feeding and Sleep: Babies with colic can sometimes be overfed, causing issues within their stomach. This can create wind, causing them to become upset. So, let’s offer them smaller feeds, making sure to keep them upright for at least 20 minutes to help with digestion. Allow them to sleep upright if they prefer this during the day. As soon as you need to go to sleep, put them in a safe sleeping environment on their backs.
Use White Noise: White noise machines or apps can be effective in drowning out background sounds that might disturb your baby's sleep. The consistent, calming sound can create a soothing environment and help your baby relax.
Settling: Babies that have colic can get discomfort settling on their backs. Settle them on their sides and once they are asleep, roll them back onto their backs.
Seek Professional Guidance: If colic persists or intensifies, consider consulting with your paediatrician to rule out any underlying medical issues. A professional assessment can provide peace of mind and guide you in managing your baby's colic effectively.
Colic can be a challenging phase for both parents and babies, but with patience, understanding, and the right strategies, it's possible to ease your little one into a more restful sleep routine. As a sleep consultant, my aim is to empower parents with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate these difficult moments, fostering a peaceful and nurturing sleep environment for the whole family. Remember, every baby is unique, so don't hesitate to adapt these tips to suit your baby's individual needs. Sweet dreams await!
