Little babies are adorable in every way, except possibly when they cry. It's not always easy to understand what those cries mean, especially in the early days when everything is so incredibly new, but in some cases it can be a stomach ache. So how do you know if your baby has a tummy ache and what do you do?

Many times, when babies are sad and crying, it can be because of stomach pain. This is not at all uncommon and not really surprising when you think about the big adjustment for the baby's stomach, which is constantly growing and being introduced to new things: both breastfeeding after birth, any formula and eventually food.

Why is stomach pain common in young children? 

When the baby is in the womb, it gets its nutrition through the umbilical cord and placenta. When the baby is born, it is time to start handling food through the gastrointestinal system instead! The stomach grows rapidly during the baby's first month, going from the size of a grape to a large tomato in just four weeks. 

If my baby has a tummy ache, what should I do?

Giving your baby a tummy rub can help release any gas or poo and many babies find it relaxing if they are in a lot of pain. Some babies enjoy lying on their tummy if they are in pain and bathing can also be pain-relieving.

Good stomach bacteria are available at the pharmacy in the form of stomach drops as well as pysventiler that can help the small stomach on the stairs. Consult the staff if you are unsure about what is suitable for you.

Colic - what is it? 

Colic usually starts in the first few weeks after birth and usually disappears by 3 months of age, but for some it can last up to 5-6 months. Common signs of colic are that the baby is inconsolable for several hours and often for the same period of time each day. Why some babies get colic is not yet fully understood, but current research suggests that an immature intestinal system, genes, stomach gas and stress are contributing factors.

So what can be done about it?

There are a few tricks you can use if you suspect colic. If you're not sure, you can always ask your child's nurse.

• Review feedings: is the baby swallowing a lot of air? 
• Give space to burp properly after meals
• Ensure that the right techniques are used for both breastfeeding and bottle feeding
• Performing infant massage. Download the Baby Journey App or click here for video instructions if you already have the app
• Using a wee-wee valve if the baby has difficulty passing poo and gas
• Being close to baby using a baby sling and/or carrier

Caring for a colicky baby is very stressful as a parent, and it's good to have the courage to ask for help and relief to cope. You are not alone in this, even if it feels like it right now. Seeing your child screaming intensely takes a toll on everyone's strength, so if there are two of you in the home, it is good to give each other space and recovery. It's okay to feel like you can't cope, and it's more than okay to take a break and recharge your batteries.

If your child becomes very constipated, stops pooping/having watery stools, vomits abnormally or feels very unwell, you should always contact the health service. 

Stomach problems in older babies

Once your baby is a bit bigger and your tummy is used to breastfeeding and/or formula, it might be time to take another step on your baby's food journey - the journey towards tasting 'real' food! Again, this is something that can upset the stomach, so don't be in too much of a hurry. Start small with taste portions and then increase slowly to give your stomach the opportunity to adjust and get used to the change. 

If you feel that your baby's tummy hurts a lot during feeding, you can back off and try again after a few days. If you experience major problems with your baby's tummy, you should always consult your maternity nurse or other healthcare professional for help and guidance.

If you have a baby who is sad because of a tummy ache, regardless of age, you may feel the loneliest in the world. Try to remember that you are rarely alone in your experience - it is so incredibly common for little babies' tummies to upset and it will pass in time.