The first few days with a newborn are so wonderful. But sometimes, as parents, we get a little frustrated because of the little things. Is your little one crying for no reason? Is he curled up in a ball and squirming around? Then one of the reasons could be gas. This is a common problem that many new parents face. So don't worry, you're not alone. Today, we're going to talk about a very simple and loving solution to this gas problem. That's baby massage.
Why do babies get so much gas?
First, let's understand this. A baby's digestive system is not yet fully developed. It's like a new machine that has just started working. It takes a while to get used to it. So, it's very normal for the stomach to fill with gas and bloating at this time.
Most of the time, after the baby finishes drinking milk, burping well and holding the baby upright for a while will reduce the gas problem. But sometimes that may not be enough. Some of the gas-relief products available in the market, such as gas drops and gripe water, do not work for all babies, and sometimes the ingredients in them may be harmful to the baby. Therefore , do not give anything to your baby without medical advice.
However, a baby massage done properly is a wonderful way to relieve your baby, without any side effects, and to strengthen the bond between you and your baby.
Keep these things in mind before giving a baby a massage.
Okay, now let's look at some things to consider before getting a massage.
1. Talk to your doctor first.
If you think your baby is having more gas than normal, or if you suspect there is another health problem, be sure to consult your pediatrician before starting the massage. Your baby may need other treatment. Otherwise, your doctor will give you more advice on how to massage safely.
2. Choose the best time to have a massage
This is very important. Do not massage your baby right after feeding. Doing so may cause the baby to vomit. Massage is most effective when done when the baby is calm and happy . Many mothers do this massage at night after bathing their baby and getting them ready for bed. It helps the baby relax and go to sleep peacefully.
3. Be careful when using oil.
It is not necessary to use oil for massage. However, applying a little oil makes the massage easier as it reduces the risk of slipping. When choosing an oil, choose an edible oil that is safe for your baby to use in their mouth. A good example is pure coconut oil.
But no matter what type of oil you use, test a small amount on your baby's skin first to see if there is an allergy. If you see any redness or blistering, don't use that type of oil.
Simple massage techniques that help reduce gas
Okay, so now let's see how to do this massage. It's very simple. Smile and talk to the baby and do these things with love.
| Massage method | The way to do it is simple. |
|---|---|
| Paddling | Using both hands, gently stroke the baby's chest from the base of the ribs down to the belly, alternating one hand and then the other, as if paddling a boat in the water. As soon as one hand comes down, start with the other hand on top. |
| Cycling (Bicycle Legs) | This is a method that many parents know. Have your baby lie face down on his hands, with his legs slightly bent at the knees. Gently hold his legs with your hands and slowly rotate them in circles as if he were riding a bicycle. While bending one leg towards his stomach, extend the other leg. If the baby seems uncomfortable, stop. |
| The "I Love You" method | This will help release trapped gas in the stomach. With your hand, draw the English letter 'I' from top to bottom on the left side of the baby's stomach (as you can see). Next, draw an upside-down 'L' from the left side of the stomach to the right. Finally, draw an upside-down 'U' across the entire stomach. |
| Hands of the Clock | This will push the gas down through the intestines. With your right hand, slowly draw a clockwise circle on the baby's stomach. At the same time, move your left hand in a crescent shape from the 10 o'clock position to the 5 o'clock position. Do this slowly and continuously. |
How do I know for sure if my baby has gas?
Gas can occur in newborns and even as babies get older and start eating solid foods. There are a few common signs that can help you recognize that your baby is gassy:
- Bending the back like a bow.
- To hold the legs close to the stomach.
- Always restless, fidgeting back and forth.
- Feeling of tightness as if the stomach is bloated.
- Crying loudly, as if in pain, different from the usual way of crying.
Some mothers say that the sound of gas crying is very different from the sound of hunger crying or the sound of a wet diaper crying. You too will be able to understand these changes in your baby after a while.
The most important thing is to do all of this very gently and lovingly. Don't hurt the baby. If the baby cries or seems uncomfortable, stop the massage and comfort the baby by holding it.
These massage techniques help to move the trapped air bubbles down the intestines and out. Also, this massage relaxes the baby's body. Some medical studies suggest that this massage even stimulates the nerves that help the intestines function (vagus nerve). However, whether you have less gas or not, this massage is a very valuable, loving time that you and your baby can spend together.
Take-Home Message
- It's very normal for a baby to have gas in their stomach. Don't be afraid or feel guilty about it.
- Do not give your baby any medicine or anything like gripe water without medical advice.
- Baby massage is a safe and effective way to reduce gas.
- Before starting the massage, be sure to talk to your doctor, especially if you have any concerns about your baby.
- Don't massage right after feeding. Choose a time when the baby is calm and happy.
- Do the massage very gently and lovingly. Make it a comforting experience for the baby and a time to strengthen the bond between you.
💬 Comments (0)
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts here.
Add Your Comment