Why Does Your Baby Cries During Diaper Changes?
Does your baby scream and wail every time you change his diaper? Do you dread having to change them in public because they will cry hysterically? We feel you, mommies. You are not alone.
Almost all babies hate diaper changes at some point. Here are some of the reasons why your baby hates diaper changes and our suggestions on how to deal with them.
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Your baby dislikes the cold
A lot of babies, especially newborns, hate the coldness they experience when undressed. Combine that with cold wipes on their bum, you will get an angry baby.
How to battle: Keep their upper body swaddled if you are in an air-conditioned room to keep your baby warm and use Antibacterial Cut Cotton with lukewarm water when changing your baby’s diaper. Using lukewarm water with cotton instead of wet wipes will not come as a shock to your baby, especially newborns.
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Your baby is hungry
If you are changing your baby’s diaper before feeding, your baby may be too hungry to wait to be fed. Try changing after feeding instead.
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Your baby wants to be in charge of their body and time
As your baby gets older, they will want to be more in charge of their body and time. They do not want to be swept away during playtime for a change of diaper.
How to battle: Give forewarning. Avoid a power struggle and create trust by always telling your baby what you will do before you start. Then narrate your actions in a calm voice. Keep your eye contact with your baby and tell them what you are doing as you do it. This sets a positive tone and shows them they are respected.
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It prevents their newfound skills
Your baby may have learned to roll, sit up and crawl. Laying your baby on their back for a diaper change would restrict their movements and prevent them from exploring these newfound skills.
How to battle: Keep them distracted. Let them hold on to something i.e. their favourite toy or small items when you change their diaper will keep them distracted and entertained. You can also get silly, make funny faces, tickle them or sing a song! You can also use diaper pants instead of tape to ease the changing process.
