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Does your baby cry too much? |
Normal babies cry and fuss for up to 3 hours per day and most crying takes place in the late afternoon and evening. The good news is that crying decreases after about 3 months of age, as the baby matures.
This sort of crying used to be called "colic" although we now know that it is normal for babies to cry this much. The crying begins around 2 weeks of age and builds up to a peak at about 6 weeks. Although these babies look as though they are in pain, this is not the case, and an underlying physical problem is rare.
Every baby is different and some babies with more "difficult" temperaments will cry more than others. It is understandable that mothers (and fathers) do become anxious at not being able to comfort the baby or worry that there is a physical cause for the crying.
After a checkup for physical problems, some useful strategies are:
· parents should have "time out" from the baby in order to relax
· dummies, extra carrying and cuddling, and movement and rocking, such as a ride in a car, often help. You will not spoil your baby by responding quickly to crying and by extra cuddling
· avoid overstimulating the baby and reduce handling and bright lights
· massage helps some babies.
Remember, crying is normal and is no one's fault. It will gradually decrease.Disclaimer:
Please note this information was correct at time of printing.
For up to date information, speak to your doctor. Source: Summer 1996 Edition | Page 4
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