How to give colic drops to a breastfed baby?

Understanding Colic in Breastfed Babies
Colic is a common concern for many new parents, characterized by excessive crying and apparent discomfort in otherwise healthy infants. While the exact cause of colic remains somewhat of a mystery, it often manifests in babies around two weeks of age and can last until they are about three to four months old. For parents navigating this challenging phase, administering colic drops can be an effective way to alleviate some of the discomfort their baby may be experiencing.
Choosing the Right Colic Drops
When it comes to treating colic, many parents turn to over-the-counter remedies, particularly those containing simethicone. This ingredient works by breaking down gas bubbles in the stomach, providing relief from the discomfort that can accompany colic. It’s important to consult with a pediatrician before introducing any medication to ensure it is appropriate for your baby’s specific needs.
How to Administer Colic Drops to a Breastfed Baby
Administering colic drops to a breastfed baby requires a gentle approach to ensure the baby receives the medication without distress. Here are some effective strategies:
1. Timing is Key: Choose a moment when your baby is calm but slightly hungry. This can help them accept the drops more easily, as they may be more willing to take something if they are in a relaxed state.
2. Use a Dropper: Most colic drops come with a dropper. Fill the dropper with the recommended dosage, which is typically indicated on the packaging.
3. Positioning: Hold your baby in a semi-upright position. This not only makes it easier for them to swallow but also helps prevent any potential choking. You can cradle them in your arm or hold them against your chest.
4. Administering the Drops: Place the dropper gently into the side of your baby’s mouth, aiming for the space between the gums and the cheek. This method allows the baby to swallow the drops without gagging. Avoid placing the dropper directly at the back of the throat, as this can cause discomfort.
5. Follow with Breastfeeding: After administering the drops, you can offer your breast. This not only provides comfort but also helps wash down the medication, ensuring that your baby receives the full dosage.
6. Monitor for Reactions: After giving the drops, keep an eye on your baby for any adverse reactions. While simethicone is generally considered safe, it’s always wise to be vigilant, especially when introducing any new medication.
Additional Tips for Managing Colic
In addition to administering colic drops, there are several other strategies that can help soothe a colicky baby. Ensuring proper latching during breastfeeding can reduce gas intake, which may alleviate some colic symptoms. Additionally, parents might consider dietary adjustments, such as eliminating dairy or other potential allergens from their own diet, as these can sometimes contribute to colic in breastfed infants.
Conclusion
Navigating the challenges of colic can be daunting for new parents, but with the right approach and tools, it is possible to provide relief for your baby. By carefully administering colic drops and employing additional soothing techniques, you can help ease your baby’s discomfort and foster a more peaceful environment for both of you. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support tailored to your baby’s needs.

Does colic affect breastfed babies?

Colic is a very common condition affecting 1 in 5 babies, regardless of whether they’re breast or formula-fed.

What are the disadvantages of colic drops?

Some of the side effects you might experience after taking the drug are:

• Nausea.
• Allergic reaction.
• Burning of skin or skin irritation.
• Bloating.
• Constipation.
• Diarrhea.
• Heartburn.

Should you put colic drops in every bottle?

Colief Infant Drops can be used at every feeding until the baby is 3 to 4 months old, by which time the signs of colic should have disappeared. Colief can then be withdrawn gradually from use, first by halving the drops per feed, then using at alternative feeds, then one feed per day before complete withdrawal.

Why wait 30 minutes for Colief?

We believe that in this form, the enzyme has an effective “working life” of approximately 30 minutes. Laboratory trials have shown that 4 drops of Colief® in 3.38 fl oz of infant milk at body temperature will break down approximately 70% of the lactose in 30 minutes.

Can I mix gas relief drops with breast milk?

Examples of available gas drops for babies include Little Tummys Gas Relief Drops, Phazyme, and Mylicon. The drops can be mixed in water, formula, or breast milk and given to baby.

Is gripe water better than colic drops?

It’s unclear whether gripe water or gas drops offer much relief for babies with colic, but they’re generally safe to try. If your baby has a hard stomach or shows other signs of trapped gas, gas drops may be a better option.

How to give colic drops when breastfeeding?

For breastfed babies:

1. Express a few tablespoons of breastmilk (either by hand or pump) into a small, sterilised container.
2. Add 4 drops of Colief Infant Drops.
3. You can give this to your baby in either a syringe, a bottle, a cup or spoon before initiating breastfeeding. You can then breastfeed as normal.

Can you mix colic drops with milk?

Infant colic drops
Measure the dose using the dropper or syringe provided and give it to your baby right away. Some brands can be added to your baby’s bottle of milk.

Can I give colic drops directly to my baby?

Caregivers can give the drops directly to a baby or mix them in with formula or expressed breast milk.

What is the 3-3-3 rule for colic?

The most commonly accepted definition of colic, which originated in 1954,4 describes using the “rule of three”: crying for more than three hours per day, for more than three days per week, and for more than three weeks in an infant that is well-fed and otherwise healthy.