<—— 9. Anti-Colic Strategies

Many Pediatricians recommend a warm bath as a way to relax an upset baby. This technique often helps to soothe a colicky infant. However, it often takes some practice by parents and some getting used to by infants. In fact, this new experience for infants may not be enjoyable until after several attempts. If you choose to utilize this strategy, place your baby in a bathtub, making sure that the water is lukewarm or at room temperature. Use baby soap or shampoo that is proven safe for infants less than six months of age.

A warm pack or hot water bottle on the baby’s tummy is an old-fashioned colic remedy as well. There are also lots of recommendations in old medical texts about placing the baby on her tummy over your knees or over a rolled-up towel to increase pressure on the abdomen. Some parents put the baby’s tummy across their knees and then gently bounce the baby to help break up gas bubbles and relieve pressure. There are no scientific studies evaluating the effectiveness of these time-honored remedies. Because they are safe, you may want to try them. Just be sure that if you use a warm pack or hot water bottle, you test the temperature and make sure it is not too hot for a baby’s sensitive skin.