My baby won't nurse but is crying from gas pain — what should I do?

Gas colic in the newborn period can be really hard on both baby and mother. First, know that this is temporary and as your baby's digestive system matures it will get better.

Reject nursing during gas crisis is very typical — because the sucking movement contracts abdominal muscles and can increase pain, so even when hungry, the baby won't want to nurse.

Here are some things you can try:

1. Upright position and movement — Hold your baby upright against your shoulder, gently patting their back as you walk around the room. Rocking motion helps release gas.

2. Leg exercises — Lay the baby on their back and gently move their legs like riding a bicycle. This helps move gas through the intestines.

3. Gentle pressure on the belly — Lay the baby on their stomach across your forearm (head in the crook of your elbow, legs hanging free). This position puts gentle pressure on the belly and is comforting.

4. Warmth — Put a warm cloth on their belly or try a warm bath (babies often pass gas after bathing).

Check with your pediatrician before trying gas drops.

Gas colic typically peaks around 6-8 weeks and noticeably decreases by 3-4 months. During this time, take good care of yourself — your calm passes to your baby. If you see vomiting, bloody stools, or weight loss plus other signs, definitely see your doctor.