Baby has stomach aches: what to do?
Baby stomach aches are one of the most common concerns for new parents. Between inconsolable crying, restless nights, and constant worry, it's not always easy to decipher the signals our little one is sending us. Understanding the causes of these abdominal pains and knowing how to react becomes essential to calmly supporting your child during their first months of life.
Recognizing the signs of a baby's tummy ache
Your baby can't yet verbally express pain, but their body is sending you signals that you need to learn to interpret. Common signs include intense, prolonged crying, often accompanied by characteristic grimacing. Pay close attention to your child's posture: they may pull their legs toward their tummy, arch their back, or have a tense, bloated tummy.
Sleep disturbances are also an important indicator. A baby suffering from stomach aches will tend to wake up frequently, have difficulty falling asleep, or have particularly restless sleep. Appetite may also be altered: some infants refuse to feed altogether, while others may suckle compulsively to reassure themselves.
Changes in intestinal transit also deserve your attention. Constipation, diarrhea, foul-smelling gas, or changes in stool color and consistency can indicate digestive discomfort. Don't hesitate to note these observations; they may prove invaluable during a medical consultation.
The main causes of abdominal pain in infants
Infant colic
Colic is probably the most common cause of stomach aches in babies under four months old. These painful episodes affect approximately 20% of infants and are characterized by intense crying, usually at the end of the day. The exact origin of colic is still debated by health professionals, but several factors seem to be involved: immaturity of the digestive system, imbalance of the intestinal flora, hypersensitivity to external stimuli, or even parental stress transmitted to the child.
Eating disorders
Diet is a common source of digestive problems. In breastfed babies, certain foods consumed by the mother can cause reactions: dairy products, legumes, cabbage, spices, or even caffeine. For bottle-fed infants, intolerance to cow's milk protein or poor adaptation to infant formula can cause abdominal pain.
Feeding technique also plays a crucial role. Feeding too quickly, using the wrong position while feeding, or using an ill-fitting bottle can all encourage air ingestion and cause painful bloating.
Transit disorders
Constipation can affect infants, particularly during solid food or when switching from breast milk to formula. Conversely, episodes of diarrhea, often linked to a viral or bacterial infection, can also cause significant abdominal cramps.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
This disorder, common in infants, manifests as acid reflux that can cause abdominal and chest pain. Associated symptoms include frequent regurgitation, crying after meals, and sometimes breathing difficulties.
Natural solutions and soothing gestures
Massage techniques
Abdominal massage is a gentle and effective way to relieve digestive tension. Use clockwise circular motions on your baby's tummy, applying light but firm pressure. This technique promotes bowel movements and helps eliminate accumulated gas.
Leg massage can also provide relief: gently bend your baby's knees toward their tummy, then use pedaling motions. These simple movements stimulate digestion and promote the expulsion of gas.
The importance of position
Your baby's position directly influences their digestive comfort. Favor the upright position after meals, holding your child against your shoulder for about fifteen minutes. This position facilitates the evacuation of air swallowed during feeding and prevents reflux.
For moments of crisis, the prone position can provide temporary relief. Place your baby on your forearm, belly down, supporting their head with your hand. This position, called the "airplane position," exerts gentle pressure on the abdomen and can soothe pain.
