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It isn't easy being a new mom. It can be very unnerving and stressful if you have done everything in your power to try and calm your baby, but your baby still keeps on crying.
The first thing to do when your baby cries is to go through all the usual steps. Some prenatal instructors compare this process to checking out to see what's wrong with a car. Check each thing one by one until you find out what is wrong.
The steps are check your baby's diaper, then see if your baby is hungry. If the baby is still a newborn, hunger or a wet diaper is usually the cause of the crying. Most babies like to eat on a certain schedule so it is usually easy to know if they are hungry or not.
If the first two things don't work, make sure it isn't too cold in the baby's room. Babies like warmth and are only comfortable if they feel warm. It is important to make sure the room doesn't feel like an oven, because excess heat can make a baby sick and uncomfortable. If you find it too cold or too warm, your baby probably feels the same way.
If the baby is still crying and won't settle, try rocking him/her. Eventually you will find out how your baby likes to be held.
If the baby feels tense or seems to be in pain, consult your pediatrician so you will know what to do if it happens again. A piercing scream or high pitched cry usually indicates pain in most babies. Holding your baby against you (facing you) with their legs tucked under him or her can help relieve cramps or tension. Sometimes a little bit of gripe water helps when a baby has cramps, but it is always a good idea to ask your pediatrician first.
If your baby has cramps, you might try laying a thick towel or comforter on the dryer, and put the baby on his or her stomache on the dryer. Run the dryer for a little while, but keep your hand on the baby's back. The vibrations of the dryer help to calm and soothe the baby. *Be sure not to leave your baby unattended and when the baby falls asleep, put your baby on his/her back or side, never on the tummy.
Older babies usually wake up crying due to teething pain. They usually have the urge to bite down on things when they are teething. A cold (not frozen) teething ring sometimes helps to ease the pain. Your pediatrician can recommend pain relievers for babies if the pain gets worse.
Sing to your baby as well. Not only does this help the baby, but it also helps to relax you as well. If your baby doesn't like your singing, play some soft music and hum along to the music.
Nature sounds work well with many babies. There are audio tapes and CD recordings of various nature sounds available on the market. There are also some toys for newborns and older babies that play nature sounds.
If you notice your baby is crying and tugging or trying top put his/her fingers in his/her ear, call a pediatrician. This could indicate an ear infection and it should be treated right away.
The most important thing to remember is to try and stay calm yourself. Some studies have shown that babies can sense what their parents are feeling so if you are not calm, then it will be harder for your baby to relax.
Sometimes, when nothing else seems to work, try cuddling your baby and holding your baby close to you. It could be that all your baby wants is to know you are there.
If you are really at your wits end, hand the baby to your partner or someone else you trust so you can have a break. It is not necessary to feel guilty for doing so because everyone needs a break some times.
Remember, if you have tried all you can and still are not sure what to do, contact your pediatrician or local health centre for advice. They are always willing to help.
Babies are a blessing and we all want to make them feel safe, secure, and loved. It is not easy being a parent. You will soon learn what works and what doesn't work for your baby by trial and error. In no time, you will be a pro and raising your baby will seem like child's play.
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