Few things are as distressing as a baby crying inconsolably from colic. Infant massage is not a magic fix, but many families find it helps calm the baby, move gas along and sleep better.
Why it can help
A baby’s gut is still maturing. Gentle strokes on the belly, always clockwise — the direction the gut moves — help gas move along. And warm touch gives security and helps them relax.
The right moment
- With the baby awake, calm and receptive.
- Not right after feeding: wait a while to avoid spit-up.
- In a warm room with no drafts, low light and little noise.
The basic strokes
- Still, warm hands on the belly for a few seconds so the baby gets used to it.
- Slow clockwise circles around the navel.
- Gently bringing the knees toward the belly and releasing.
- Long strokes on the legs and back to finish.
Always with very light pressure and, if you use oil, a mild unscented vegetable oil.
When not to do it
- If the baby has a fever or is unwell.
- Over the navel if it has not healed.
- Over a recent vaccine site.
- If the baby cries, fusses or turns away: stop.
And call the pediatrician if crying is very intense or there is vomiting, fever, blood in the stool or poor weight gain. For babies born early there is an even gentler approach: premature baby massage.
Part of our guide Pregnancy, postpartum and baby →
The information on this site is general guidance and does not replace your doctor’s assessment.
