Very few things, if any, can be compared to the frustration of having a baby with colic or gas, especially when it means that both of you’ve been deprived of sleep. Waking up to a baby who appears to be in agony, screams for hours on end, and cannot be put to sleep no matter what you do can leave one feeling intimidated, tired, and hopeless. The good news? There is light at the end of the tunnel! Let’s discuss what colic and gas are, how they relate to newborn sleep, and how one can cope with this trying time.
What Are Colic and Gas?
Although there is quite a clear cut definition of colic, it may be generally referred to as a healthy baby’s excessive and inconsolable crying episodes. It usually begins in the range of 2 to 3 weeks of age, then at 6 weeks reaches its peak. Colic usually resolves by the age of 3 to 4 months in an infant, but the few weeks before this stage can feel like a lifetime with a crying baby. Gas, on the other hand, refers to excess air that gets trapped in your baby’s belly and digestive tract which eventually also gives rise to uneasiness, irritability, and sleeplessness.
Both conditions affect many babies but still, it remains quite vague regarding their definite etiological factors. Some thoughts state that colic may be related to a developing digestive tract/system, being sensitive to overstimulation, or even sensitivities to different formulas and foods breastfeeding mothers eat. Most gas issues occur when babies swallow air while feeding, crying, or sucking improperly.
How Colic And Gas Are Related To Sleep
A baby with colic or gas struggles to sleep well because they’re in discomfort. This often results in short naps and frequent night wakings, as the discomfort keeps them from settling into a deeper, restful sleep. You may notice your baby arching their back, pulling their legs up toward their belly, or passing gas before waking up, all signs that discomfort is disturbing their sleep.
The tricky part is that poor sleep itself can exacerbate colic-like symptoms. Overtired babies can become more irritable and more difficult to soothe, creating a challenging cycle.
You Can Help Baby Sleep Better!
While there isn’t a magical fix for colic or gas, there are steps you can take to ease your baby’s discomfort and improve their sleep:
1. Try Different Feeding Techniques
If your baby is gassy, experiment with how you feed them. Ensure a good latch during breastfeeding or use slow-flow bottles to reduce the amount of air they swallow. Burp your baby frequently, especially after feeding, to release trapped air before it causes discomfort. Try feeding bottles in a side-lying position where they are slightly propped up and experiment with different breastfeeding holds.
2. Use White Noise and Swaddling
White noise mimics the sound of the womb and can help soothe a baby suffering from colic or gas, making it easier for them to settle. Swaddling can also provide comfort, keeping your baby snug and reducing their startle reflex. The 5 S’s from Happiest Baby on the Block can really soothe those fussy babies!
3. Offer Tummy Time and Bicycling Legs
Tummy time during the day (which can be done on mom or dad’s chest, lap, etc) or "bicycling" your baby’s legs can help relieve gas and improve digestion. Laying your baby across your knees and rubbing their back can also provide some relief. The football hold/carry can be really comforting too!
4. Create a Calm Environment
Overstimulation can make colic worse, so aim to create a calm, quiet environment before bedtime. Dim the lights, turn off any loud noises, and help your baby unwind with a soothing bedtime routine. Reduce outings and interactions during the day just during this challenging time. Get out of the house for quiet walks, but try to avoid large gatherings.
5. Consider Gripe Water or Gas Drops
If you’ve talked to your pediatrician and they give the go-ahead, consider using gripe water or gas drops designed to help babies with colic or gas. These can sometimes provide temporary relief from discomfort. It could be a placebo effect or it could really help. Who knows, but if it’s safe to try, desperate times call for desperate measures.
6. Take Turns with a Partner
Sleep deprivation is tough on parents too. If you can, take shifts with your partner so both of you can get some rest. Even a couple of hours of uninterrupted sleep can make a huge difference. Yes, you can do this even if you’re breastfeeding!
7. Keep Your Baby Upright After Feeding
Keeping your baby upright for 20-30 minutes after a feed can help prevent gas from building up and causing discomfort. This can make a big difference in their ability to settle down for sleep.
Colic and gas are hard to deal with, but they are temporary. By making small adjustments to your baby’s feeding, soothing, and sleep environment, you can help ease their discomfort and improve their sleep during this challenging time. And remember, you’re not alone in this—many parents have been through it, and it does get better. Hang in there!
