As a new parent, one of the most stressful things is having a baby that cries and you…

As a new parent, one of the most stressful things is having a baby that cries and you dont know why. Colic (a baby that cries for more than 3 hours per day for an unknown reason) is extremely common.

Dr Harvey Karp from @happiest_baby wrote about using the 'five S's' to calm a baby when they appear inconsolable. I have added an additional one (skin to skin) and adapted it to the 'Six S's'

If during the first few months of birth, we can mimic the comfort of the womb, it may help the baby feel more secure. This period of adaption to the world is often referred to as the 4th trimester.

So let's look at the Six S's:

Swaddling - some babies like to be wrapped securely (not tightly) using a light wrap. This prevents them from flailing their arms around and startling themselves.

Shushing - In the womb the baby will have heard lots of whoosing noises as the maternal blood rushed around the body. By gently making 'shhhh' sounds to your newborn, you are helping to recreate that environment.

Side/stomach laying - This is not recommended as a sleeping position but if your baby has gas or griping pain in the stomach, laying them like this on your lap or or a blanket can help to calm them and also aid with digestion. Many NICU units lay babies on their stomach's too.

Swing - Gently rocking a baby from side to side or trying a baby swing if you have one may help. They were used to that motion in the womb so of course still want it to continue.

Suck- Suckling often calms a baby down. Whether its a breast, pacifier or bottle, you may find that this may just be what they need.

Skin to skin - Being skin to skin with your baby is extremely beneficial. It can help promote calm, keep them warm, they can hear your heartbeat and stimulates the release of the feel good hormone, oxytocin.

Give these a go when your baby needs calming, you may be pleasantly surprised!