7 massages to prevent baby constipation

One of the main reasons for a baby's crying is often colic or constipation that they may suffer from during the first few months of life due to the immaturity of their digestive system. As we saw in this post about how to prevent constipation in babies, one of the methods that helps relieve colic and constipation in babies is through massages.

Since it is a natural and home remedy, it can be done several times a day to alleviate any discomfort the baby may be feeling. After a bath, when the baby is relaxed, is often the preferred time for most parents to massage the baby, also taking advantage of the moment to apply cream.

Below, we show you the 7 best massages to relieve the baby's pains, which you can combine or choose the one that your baby and you like the most.

7 Massages to prevent baby constipation

Dragging massage

With the baby lying on their back, place your hands on the baby's belly and make a sweeping motion with the palms of your hands from the ribs to the lower abdomen. The pressure you apply should be gentle so as not to bother the baby.

Two-handed massage

Lay the baby on their stomach, keeping one of your hands on their belly and the other on their back, applying pressure with both hands at the same time.

"Clockwise" massage

With the baby lying on their back, massage their tummy with your fingertips in circular motions clockwise.

Leg movement massage

Lay the baby on their back and hold their legs by the ankles, extending and flexing them until the knees touch the belly.

"Bicycle" massage

In the same position as in the previous massage, hold the baby's legs and move them simulating the pedaling motion of a bicycle.

Side massage

Lay the baby on a rigid surface (on the bed, on the changing table, etc.) on their side and stretch one of their legs while bending the other, gently pressing their abdomen with the thigh. Repeat this massage by laying the baby on the other side.

Inverted letters or "I Love You" massage

This massage is also called "I Love You" because it involves massaging the baby's belly with movements that mimic the letters of this English expression (I, L, U). To do this, lay the baby on their back and then draw the letter I on the right side of their belly, then the inverted letter L, and finally, the inverted letter U, as shown in the image.