Newborn babies are a delight to welcome into your family and it’s an exciting thing to see them bloom. However, when your baby cries for long periods or struggles with bowel movements, it can feel worrying and exhausting. Two common concerns in the early months are colic and constipation.
It can be a saddening and overwhelming experience having to listen to your babies consistent tears or crying due to either of these as your baby has no other way to communicate how they feel. This makes it more important for you to understand them early so you can attend to these situations with confidence when they arise. Understanding what they are, why they happen, and how to support your baby can bring comfort and reassurance.
What is Colic?
Colic is defined as frequent, prolonged crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It often starts around 2 weeks of age, peaks at 6–8 weeks, and usually improves by 3–4 months.
A baby with colic may:
- Cry intensely, often in the late afternoon or evening.
- Clench their fists, arch their back, or pull their legs up.
- Appear uncomfortable or gassy.
Colic can be distressing, but it does not mean you are doing anything wrong. The exact cause isn’t fully understood—it may be linked to an immature digestive system, gas, or heightened sensitivity—but it always improves with time.
What is Constipation?
Constipation in newborns is less common, especially for babies who are exclusively breastfed. Formula-fed babies may sometimes experience firmer stools or less frequent bowel movements.
Signs of constipation include:
- Hard, pellet-like stools.
- Discomfort or straining when passing stools.
- Going longer than usual without a bowel movement.
- A firm or bloated tummy.
It’s important to distinguish between constipation and normal newborn bowel habits. Many young babies strain or go red in the face when passing stools. This habit can be normal in a baby, however, the resulting stool has to be soft to exclude any likelihood of constipation.
How Can You Help a Baby with Colic?
- Comfort measures: Rocking, carrying in a sling, or gentle white noise may soothe your baby.
- Burping often: Regular burping during and after feeds can reduce trapped air.
- Feeding position: Keep your baby upright during feeds.
If crying persists for several hours a day, check in with your GP , or midwife to rule out any underlying issues. Also ensure you share your observations with your health visitor to rule out any other issue,
How Can You Support a Baby with Constipation?
- Check feeding: Ensure your baby is feeding well and getting enough milk.
- Tummy massage: Gently massage your baby’s tummy in a clockwise motion.
- Leg exercises: Moving your baby’s legs in a “bicycle” motion can help relieve trapped wind.
- Hydration: For formula-fed babies, ensure the formula is prepared according to instructions, with the correct powder-to-water ratio.
For babies under 6 months, avoid giving extra water, juice, or remedies unless advised by a healthcare professional.
When to Seek Help
Always contact your GP, midwife, or health visitor if:
- Your baby has persistent constipation or very hard stools.
- There is blood in the stool.
- Your baby vomits repeatedly, refuses feeds, or seems unwell.
- Colic symptoms are extreme or you’re concerned about your baby’s crying.
A Gentle Reminder for Parents
Caring for a baby with colic or constipation can be tiring and emotionally draining. Remember, these are common newborn challenges, and they do not reflect your abilities as a parent. With patience, gentle care, and support from healthcare professionals, most babies grow out of these difficulties quickly.
You’ve got this mama!!!
