Hilary Duff Got Really Candid About Her Biggest Post-Baby Struggle

Ah, newborns! They’re cute, they’re cuddly, they’re miraculous beings–but, they can also be a real big pain in the butt! Now, we know what you’re thinking: How can you call these innocent creatures such a name?! Well, unless you’ve ever tried raising one who won’t let you put them down for even a second without crying bloody murder, then don’t be so quick to judge.

Recently, actress Hilary Duff took to Instagram to air her many grievances about her newborn, Banks, an adorable baby who, unfortunately, seems to be suffering from one heck of a difficult childhood ailment.

As you can see, Duff’s newborn is dealing with a rather severe case of colic, a condition that, according to the experts at the Mayo Clinic, is characterized by “frequent, prolonged and intense crying or fussiness in a healthy infant.” While the causes of colic can run the gamut, pediatricians say that the root issues can be anything from an underdeveloped digestive system to allergies to even early-onset childhood migraines. 

Typically, the monster that is colic tends to subside by the time the child hits the three to four-month mark, a fact that is likely both somewhat soothing and somewhat annoying to parents, especially ones like Hilary who may have to endure several more weeks of the incessant crying.

It’s a struggle that isn’t just unique to the actress–it’s estimated that a whopping 25% of babies develop colic somewhere between the two-week and three-month mark. That will seriously put a damper on the whole “post-partum glow” thing!

Ways to soothe an infant’s case of colic

Although colic is far from being a lifetime ailment, oftentimes, already overtired parents have a hard time riding out the period. Lucky for them, there are some tried and true methods to help bring comfort to both the baby, as well as mom and dad:

  • Opt for a kangaroo-style carrying position
  • Experiment with different swaddling techniques
  • Give the babe a relaxing massage
  • Stick the kiddo in a warm bath
  • Play a ‘white noise’ playlist on Spotify
  • Lower the lights and reduce all outside noises
  • Softly sing or talk to your baby
  • Gently pedal your baby’s legs (this motion helps to relieve excess gas in the tummy!)

Of course, always keep your doctor in the loop about any changes in your newborn’s behavior. While colic is usually nothing to be concerned about, incessant crying could point to something more serious. Good to know!

We’d love to hear your take on Hilary Duff’s struggle with colic. Have any of your children suffered from the condition? If so, did you find it difficult to deal with? Do you have any home remedies for alleviating colic?