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Dirty diapers, constant crying, sleepless nights - all parents are familiar with both the joys and challenges that a new addition to the family can bring. Yet it can come as a shock to some - particularly newborn parents - when the baby does not stop crying for hours or even days at a time. We fear the worst: does my child have colic?

What is colic?

Colic is used for a disorder in which an otherwise healthy infant cries continually and inconsolably. In arises when the infant is approximately two years old, and can last up to four months. Colic is usually characterized by long bouts of crying (often lasting for hours), which usually occur at fixed times during the day (i.e. the morning and evening). About 40% of all infants suffer from mild colic, whereas 10-15% are predicted to suffer from severe colic. But don't lose sleep over this: colic is only a temporary stage - it very rarely persists after the fifth month.

Causes

Although professionals are not certain as to the exact causes of colic, some evidence suggests that the disorder is related to digestive problems. Some professionals claim that colic is caused as a result of the baby's intestines working too hard, resulting in painful cramps. Other doctors argue that the disorder is based on slow bowel moves which result in gas being trapped in the intestines, which can be very painful and leads to inflammation. Many osteopaths and other medical professionals still dispute the causes of colic, but where research has been conducted, it has emerged that there is no known definitive source.

Common symptoms

Now you are probably wondering, 'how do I know if my child has colic?' There are a couple of key symptoms that can help you distinguish the disorder: The infant cries for long periods of time (up to three hours sessions) without being comforted by anything. This process repeats itself for days or weeks. Some infants release a lot of gas, which can be very painful The child is restless or visibly uncomfortable The baby pulls their thighs up to their abdomen and clenches their fists

Treatment and Prevention

There are several techniques that you as a parent can employ to make your child feel more comfortable. Osteopaths recommend the following: Try carrying the infant on a sling on your stomach. Your heartbeat, body heat and movement might make them feel more at ease. Gently massage the infant's belly in slow circular movements.

If the problem continues to exist, you are advised to visit an osteopathic clinic. Here your precious baby can be examined more closely for any tensions in body, and can be given the extra attention it needs.

Seeing your child in pain is any parent's worst nightmare, especially when you do not know what to do about it. Now you can hopefully rest assured: with today's modern osteopathic techniques, and with the knowledge that colic is only temporary, a good night's sleep is in order for both you and your baby.

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Today, baby shower etiquette has evolved from a set of rules and procedures to a few flexible guidelines from which to base the structure of your shower on. Although there are no specific rules on how to host your baby shower, there are some basic rules of thumb that will help you have an amazing shower that will be comfortable and enjoyable for you and your guests. This article will answer all of the questions that you may have in mind and will address the issues at hand that matter when planning a baby shower.

Who should host the baby shower?

Years ago, the tradition was for non-related friends or co-workers to host the shower. However, today, many expectant mothers like for their own mothers and sisters to plan and host the event. The decision of who should host of the shower is completely up to you. In todays society, anyone from the mommys sister, to her mom, to her best friend, to her co-worker, is acceptable. There is no right or wrong host. The important part here is that whoever decides to host the baby shower be close to the mother and know her very well, in order to plan and execute the event according to her taste and preferences.

When is it appropriate to have the baby shower?

Typically, a baby shower is held about one to two months before the babys due date. This is a good time because the mother will know the gender of the baby by this date, and it will be easier to shop for gifts knowing if the baby will be a boy or a girl. One or two months before the babys birth date also gives the mother time to buy the items that she did not receive or that she is missing, before the babys arrival. Some people prefer to have the shower a few weeks after the baby is born. This is also perfectly acceptable, and completely up to you.

Where should the shower take place?

Depending on the number of guests, hosts can choose to have the shower at a house, a restaurant, or a banquet hall. The location of the baby shower is the hosts decision, and is dependant on the budget, too. When choosing the place for the celebration, consider the size of your audience, the mommys preferences, and the total costs.

Can I invite men to the baby shower?

Whether you decide to have an all-women baby shower or a co-ed baby shower is up to you. Years ago, most women had women-only showers, but today, co-ed baby showers have become increasingly popular. This gives the daddy-to-be, his friends, and male members of the family a chance to participate in the celebration.

When making decisions about the baby shower, it is critical to cater to the mommy-to-be and her preferences. There are no set dos and donts in todays society. More and more taboos have been broken, and many things have become appropriate and acceptable, as long as the expectant parents are happy with the celebration.

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