Fussy Newborn
How To Calm A Fussy Newborn
Almost all new parents will deal with the fussy newborn stage at some point. Of course, hearing your baby cry for the first time is the most delightful noise you have ever heard but listening to your bundle of joy cry constantly is another story. Babies cry a lot, it is their way of communicating if they are hungry, sick, tired or an endless list of other reasons. However, sometimes they cry just to cry and this is the fussy newborn stage that makes mothers want to pull their own hair out.
Get Moving
When babies are still in your belly, they feel movement all of the time. They are used to walking or up and down actions for many months so it only makes sense when you have a fussy newborn to offer them a little bit of motion. The traditional “Rock-a-bye baby” technique of swaying side to side from the hips is usually a good place to start. This cradled back and forth motion does amazing things for a fussy newborn. Many babies really enjoy swings as well but it is very important that you choose a swing designed for a newborn or else your baby can end up slumped over.
Also, some mothers have luck placing their baby in an infant seat and putting it on top of a running dryer or washing machine. Just be sure to hold the seat at all times while your baby is soaking up the vibrations. If these movement options do not calm your fussy newborn, then chances are good that a car ride will. Try taking a few circles around the block and see if that helps.
Wrap Them Up
Your baby very much enjoyed the cozy environment of your womb. Since newborns are fairly new to the idea of being allowed so much real estate to sprawl out, try wrapping them up safe and secure to help stop the tears. Fold your baby's arms across their chest and swaddle them up in a nice lightweight blanket. This has a calming effect on fussy newborns. Also, it has been reported that babies that are swaddled generally sleep longer as well which is always a plus for you.
If your baby is not responding to the swaddling then you may want to try the kangaroo approach. Undress your baby and place him or her against your bare skin and wrap the two of you up in a nice soft, warm blanket together. Don't have the time for all this snuggling with your fussy newborn? Strap on a sling! This allows your baby to feel bundled up and secure while also enjoying your movement.
Turn Up The Volume
Some new mothers assume that the world around their baby needs to be silent for them to sleep however, this is simply not always the case. Do not think that your womb was a serene sanctuary of peace and quiet. Your baby has been enveloped with noise from the very beginning of their existence listening to your heartbeat, stomach digesting and blood flowing so naturally, some babies just prefer noise. Turn on a fan, vacuum or perhaps pop in a CD with nature or water noises to soothe your fussy newborn.
Colic?
One out of five babies will develop colic. A helpful way to remedy this if you are nursing is to watch your own diet. Caffeine, onions and dairy that you are consuming can all be underlying causes for your fussy newborn. Of course it is tempting when you finally are through being pregnant to indulge in less healthy food and drink choices but if you have decided to nurse your baby than you must be responsible in your diet decisions while doing so.