If your baby has colic, you know how urgent it can feel to stop the inconsolable crying. Even though you’d try just about anything to stop the sobs, new research says you can skip one trending treatment.
For some time, studies were suggesting that probiotics could help soothe colic. In fact, the live bacteria thought to regulate digestive systems is widely used in Europe for that purpose.
But newer research, in the British Medical Journal, finds probiotics offer no benefit at all. And experts say they haven’t been studied to determine any potential long-term side effects.
Colic is normal
Experts say remember, colic can be a normal part of development in about 25 percent of babies and the crying is not related to a medical condition. It is defined by the rule of threes, called the Wessel Criteria.
A baby who cries for at least three (3) hours a day, at least three (3) days per week, for at least three (3) weeks.
Colic usually starts around 6 to 8 weeks of age and gets better over time.
Signs to look for
If you aren’t sure, look for these signs:
- The crying episodes are predictable usually around the same time of day, often late afternoon or evening.
- The cries are intense, often high-pitched and seem to come out of nowhere.
- And there’s tell-tale body language, a flushed face, curled-up legs, clenched fists and tensed tummy muscles.
If you’re seeing the signs, call your pediatrician and definitely check in if your baby starts vomiting. It could be reflux.
Does anything help?
Recent research found that no drugs really help calm the crying. The two most promising avenues for treatment: lactose-free formulas for bottle-fed infants, and low-allergen maternal diets in breastfed infants.
The Five S’s
Many mothers also try old school, low tech remedies known as the Five S’s.
- Make a shushing sound
- Hold the baby on his or her side
- Sway the baby
- Swaddle the baby
- Suckle the baby with a bottle, by breastfeeding or with pacifier
At the very least, these techniques may help calm your nerves, so you’ll be less frazzled and better able to cope.
Finally, remember there will be no longterm emotional or physical effects, and the colic will pass…. soon. Hang in there!
