Winds and colic

Babies often swallow air while they feed. This can make them feel very uncomfortable and cause cramps and even tears. Try the following in order to minimise the effect of winds, but remember, stay patient as it can take a few minutes to release the air:

Position your baby properly during a feed. Whether you are giving breast or bottle, make sure your baby’s head is always a little higher than his tummy. This ensures that gravity helps the milk go down and any trapped air will naturally want to find its way upwards. After the feed you can pat out the winds. Try a few different positions to find the one that works best for your baby:

1) Hold baby upright against your body with his head resting on your shoulder. Support his bum with your arm. Now pat and rub his back with your free hand.

2) Let your baby sit on your lap facing sideways. Rest his arm against your forearm and hold him under his armpit away from you. Use your free hand to rub or pat his back firmly from bottom to top.

3) Lie your baby face down over your forearm, with his head higher than his legs. Pat his back with firm upward strokes with your other hand.

Bonus tips: Tummy time on the floor can help wind to come loose, as can making cycling motions with his legs while he lies on his back. Dads are usually talented wind releasers, so pass your baby to his father after a feed. It’s good for bonding too.