Medical Reports: Baby Blues

WSVN -- When even "Rock-a-bye-baby" won't calm the crying, and you feel like you're headed for a breakdown, remember you're not alone.

Terri Brevda: "It's important for parents to know that crying is normal."

That's why Terri Brevda, a nurse at Memorial Regional Hospital teaches new parents how to soothe the most savage little soul.

Terri Brevda: "Prolonged crying can lead to shaken baby syndrome, child abuse, it can lead to postpartum depression."

But Terri says there are some simple things parents can do to calm their little one.

Terri Brevda: "One of the greatest baby-calming techniques is sling wearing or baby-wearing your baby."

The constant motion reminds baby of being in the womb, so it's a nice transition into the world. It also puts parents face-to-face with their infant. Another calming technique is called the neck nestle, where you make a deep humming sound while nestling baby under your neck.

Terri Brevda: "Feeling the vibration and hearing the sound and you're so paternal by bouncing and rocking the baby gently."

Gas is a common cause of babies crying. A good soother for an upset stomach is called the football hold.

Terri Brevda: "So putting a little pressure on their abdomen can ease this discomfort on the baby."

You can also try infant massage to get rid of gas.

Terri Brevda: "Bring his knees up to the abdomen, and then stretch out his legs."

New parent Sarah Frimodig says a class like this really helps boost your confidence.

Sarah Frimodig: "It's reassuring to know that what you are doing is safe and OK, that this isn't too much."

Dad-to-be Therman Butts admits he's a bit anxious about his new role.

Therman Butts: "Excited, nervous, scared, it's a combination of everything rolled up into one."

That's why his wife says it's important for both mom and dad to be prepared.

Irmine Butts: "It's peace of mind for the mother to know they've been presented with the same information that they're just as prepared and able to do what I do when I'm not around."

And knowing how to beat the baby blues makes for a happier baby and parent.

Terri Brevda: "Once they realize that they can soothe and calm their crying baby, they'll feel very confident, and that carries on good parenting skills throughout the child's life."

Diana Diaz: "Another calming tip, babies love warmth. Terri says you can throw their blanket in the dryer for a few seconds, but check for hot spots first before wrapping baby."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Baby Calming Classes at Memorial Regional Hospital
$20 Per Couple
3501 Johnson Street
Hollywood, FL 33021
Tel: (954) 265-5930
http://www.memorialregional.com/ 
click "Family Birthplace"