Baby colic, which affects approximately 25% of babies, typically begins at about 2 to 3 weeks of age, reaching its peak at 2 months, subsiding at 3 months and disappearing by 4 months of age. Unfortunately, babies with colic can scream uncontrollably for three or more consecutive hours, usually in the evening time when both baby and parents or childcare providers are weary.
According to Wikipedia, colic is considered to have a number of causes, including: stomach gas (due to poor burping), intestinal gas (pocketed in the intestinal tract), neurological overload (the overwhelmed and overstimulated baby that becomes exhausted) and even a muscular type of colic (perhaps due to muscle spasm and birth trauma).
Traditionally, swaddling and keeping the baby upright with the hips flexed has been considered an effective relief for colicky babies.
Almost 20 years ago, experts in gynaecology, paediatrics, psychology and midwifery in the Netherlands identified the positive effects of placing a fussy or colicky baby in an environment that simulated the warmth and security of the womb: together they created TummyTub.
Placed in TummyTub feet first, baby is immersed up to the shoulders in warm water and remains seated upright with the hips flexed so that the knees come up to meet the chest and baby naturally adopts the familiar and comfortable foetal position. The abdominal muscles, and more specifically the diaphragm, which stimulates proper bowel function, are now able to relax and pressure can be released with ease.
Fussy and colicky babies tend to be uncomfortable when placed square on their backs, so TummyTub allows even the most reluctant baby to enjoy bath time, release uncomfortable wind, gas and constipation and sleep peacefully.
A calm tummy means a calm baby and a content baby means content parents…you and your baby can now engage in all important positive eye contact.
The award-winning TummyTub is an affordable colic treatment and preventative that uses less water and stays warmer for longer than a regular baby bath. TummyTub retails at €25.99 from independent stores, nationwide. For more information, visit www.tummytub.ie
