In the early stages of parenthood, distinguishing between colic and reflux in your newborn can be difficult.  I am an experienced newborn care specialist with over 40 years of expertise, including infant care education, postpartum support, and sleep conditioning. I’m here to guide you through these common but often misunderstood conditions.

Most of the time it’s just an inability to handle the constant sensory stimulation that surrounds them causing those continual meltdowns by the end of the day, when “colic” most often occurs.

Reflux is one of the most frustrating issues to deal with when you are caring for a newborn. Although, reflux is very common in infants, it is most often misdiagnosed as colic. Usually babies who suffer from reflux are fussy at each feeding and off and on throughout the day. There are different types of reflux and can be attributed to many things.

Colic in Newborns: More Than Just Crying

It’s natural for babies to cry, but colic brings inconsolable crying spells lasting one to three hours, particularly at the same time each day. While the exact cause of colic isn’t entirely known, it’s commonly associated with gas, an immature digestive system, and formula sensitivities. As a Certified Holistic Newborn Care Specialist, I’m also well equipped to take a holistic approach at times to soothe your baby, utilizing natural remedies and techniques refined over decades.

Reflux: Beyond Simple Spit-Up

Reflux can challenge even the most patient parents, with symptoms ranging from frequent spitting and vomiting after feedings to sleep disturbances and chronic irritability. Reflux is commonly misdiagnosed as colic; reflux requires a keen eye to manage effectively. I offer personalized care strategies, focusing on alleviating discomfort and promoting a soothing feeding experience.

Key Signs of Reflux Include:

• Spitting and vomiting post-feeding
• Feeding and sleeping disturbances
• Day-long chronic irritability
• Fluctuations in weight gain or noticeable weight loss
• Episodes of painful crying
• Neck or back arching during or after meals

As a newborn care specialist, I’m adept at distinguishing between colicky gas and reflux, proposing a variety of solutions, including natural methods, to address your newborn’s specific needs.

Slow Weight Gain: A Path Toward Thriving

Newborns experiencing slow weight gain, a condition sometimes referred to as “failure to thrive,” present unique challenges, particularly among premature infants. Representing approximately 5-10% of babies, this condition demands expert intervention. My extensive training equips me to develop effective plans aimed at achieving healthy weight gain milestones.