Your Baby Week 8
Can you believe your baby is almost two months old? At this age, it is normal for babies to swallow air and pass gas but excessive gas can be making both your baby and you miserable. Below you can find some simple tips to let less air in and help get more air out:
- If you are bottle feeding, make sure your baby’s lips fasten on the wide base of the nipple and not just on the tip.
- If breastfeeding, make sure your baby’s lips form a tight seal far back on your areola.
- Bottles should be given at a 45 degree angle to keep air away from the nipple.
- Try using collapsible formula bags.
- Feed your baby smaller volumes of food more frequently.
- Keep your baby at a 45 degree angle or higher for 30 minutes after feeding.
- Burp you baby before and after feedings. If you are breastfeeding, burp your baby when he switches sides.
- Try gently massaging your baby’s abdomen. (use strokes in a clockwise direction)
If your baby is still having problems with gas, try using gas relief drops. They are safe enough to administer after each feeding and can make a world of difference. Of course, check with your baby's pediatrician before giving any medicine to your newborn and be sure to read the label carefully for proper dosage information.
Easing your own stress
If you find yourself more stressed than usual, take a break. Try to find a way to spend at least one hour away from your baby each day, even if it is in the tub or spending time reading in your room. You can also try to get support with local parents groups. If you don’t know where to find one, the best place to start is at your local hospital. They should be able to point you in the direction of some parents groups that meet regularly. If you aren’t into group meetings, try chatting with at least one friend or other parents online.
