How to Soothe a Baby After Shots | Tips for Parents

Most moms often ask a question from health professionals “My baby cries uncontrollably when he/she gets a shot. Are there any ways to make this experience less traumatic for him/her?” Well, most of us have been there: the wailing physician's office scene. You are mortified that baby is crying and you are also heartbroken. Here's your poor, little, sensitive kid, and you just gave someone permission to stick him/her with a bunch of painful needles.

Getting your kids vaccinated can be tough on your child as well as on you, but the benefits are worth the effort. Before your baby's second birthday, he or she may be poked with a painful needle up to 20 times during vaccinations. Nonetheless, these shots protect children from fatal diseases. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to make the experience less stressful and painful. According to a journal published in Pediatrics, use the five S's immediately after your child gets a vaccine.

Swaddling

You should swaddle (wrapping a baby tightly in a blanket like a "burrito") your child immediately after the shot. You can also wrap him/her before the shot, but in this case, leave your baby's legs exposed for the vaccination.

Side or stomach position

It involves holding your child on his/her side or stomach while you comfort them. Just don't do this when he or she is sleeping or unsupervised. Babies should always be put to sleep on their backs to lower the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome).

Shushing

It involves making a shhh sound or playing gentle sleep music to soothe a fussy newborn to divert the baby's attention.

Swinging

It involves gently swinging or rocking your child in your good, old fashioned arms.

Sucking

Giving your child the opportunity to suck (whether through breastfeeding, a feeder, or a pacifier). Studies have shown that doing at least 4 of the 5 S's significantly reduces the duration of time infants cry after getting vaccinated. If you are OK with breastfeeding your child at the physician's office (to fulfill the sucking recommendation), this step alone can be the most effective method of distracting your baby's attention and calming him/her down.

In certain situations, a sugar water solution may come in handy. Dipping a pacifier into this solution and giving it to a fussy child may help soothe him/her. Ask your baby's doctor or nurse first. The CDC says a sweet drink can be given to babies older than 6 months.

Before and after the vaccine is given, try applying gentle pressure around the injection site. This method may prevent the skin area from feeling so painful.

For a toddler or an older baby, shushing and swaddling might not work. Try letting your baby sit on your lap during the shot and distract him/her with a toy or something else. Try not to look upset or anxious. Children are intelligent enough that they can pick up on a parent's anxiety, and this can make them anxious as well.

If your child has pain at the injection site, develops a fever or rash, or feels sick, speak to your child's physician about giving medicine such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (paracetamol) to relieve symptoms. Never give ibuprofen to a baby younger than 6 months unless your doctor says it is okay.

Also, do not forget to praise your child afterward. Your positive reinforcement can not only make him/her feel better but also make the next trip to the physician easier. A trip to the playground or park can also make the overall shot experience less stressful.

Questions Parents Ask About Shots

How long are babies fussy after shots?

Most babies are fussy for about 1 to 2 days. They may cry more, want to be held more, sleep differently or eat a little less. The American Academy of Pediatrics says mild fussiness and restless sleep usually last 24 to 48 hours. If your baby is still fussy after 3 days, call your doctor.

How long will my baby be fussy after 2 month and 4 month shots?

It is usually the same. Babies get a few shots at these visits, so they may be a little sore and cranky that day and the next. Most babies are back to normal in 1 or 2 days. Fussiness can start within the first 12 hours after the shots.

Is it normal for my baby to cry a lot after shots?

Yes. Crying right after a shot is very normal and usually stops soon with a cuddle or a feed. Some crankiness for the rest of the day is also normal. But if your baby cries nonstop for more than 3 hours, call your doctor right away.

How can I soothe my baby after shots?

• Hold and cuddle your baby. Skin to skin contact can help a lot.
• Breastfeed or give a bottle. Sucking is very calming for babies.
• Swaddle your baby in a soft blanket.
• Talk softly, sing or play calm music.
• Offer feeds more often. It is normal for some babies to eat less for about a day.

These tips come from the CDC. Soft music can help too. Our Go To Sleep Lullaby is a gentle one to try.

How can I help with the pain where the shot was given?

Put a cool, damp cloth on the spot to help with redness, soreness and swelling. Ask your baby's doctor before you give any pain or fever medicine, and ask what amount is right for your baby's age and weight. If your baby is younger than 12 weeks and has a fever, do not give any fever medicine. Call the doctor first.

How long is the shot spot sore or red?

Soreness, redness and a little swelling usually show up in the first day. They often last 2 to 3 days, and sometimes up to 7 days with some shots.

Can I breastfeed my baby during shots?

Yes, if your doctor or nurse says it's okay. Breastfeeding during or right after shots can calm your baby and help them feel close to you. If you don't breastfeed, holding your baby close and giving a pacifier can also help.

When should I call the doctor after shots?

Call your doctor right away if:

• Your baby is younger than 12 weeks and has a fever.
• The fever is higher than 104°F (40°C).
• Your baby cries nonstop for more than 3 hours.
• Your baby looks or acts very sick.

Call within a day or during office hours if the redness gets bigger than 2 inches, the redness or pain gets worse after 3 days, a fever lasts more than 3 days, or your baby is still fussy after 3 days.

Call 911 if your baby has trouble breathing or swallowing, is very weak or not moving, or you can't wake them up. For more signs to watch for, read our post on when to call a doctor.

How can I help my older child not cry when getting a shot?

It's okay if they cry. Be honest and tell them the shot will pinch for a moment but it won't hurt for long. Hold them on your lap, bring a favorite toy and take deep breaths together to "blow out" the ouch. Never scold a child for not being brave. For more ideas, read our post on how to help your child feel brave at the doctor.

This post is for general information only. It is not medical advice. If you have questions about your child's health, please talk to your child's doctor.

About the author:
Dr. Emma George (M.D.), Nutritionist

Dr. Emma George is a medical graduate and nutritionist with over five years of experience in the field of medicine. She has a special interest in medicine, advancing medical techniques, and how the knowledge of medicine helps people improve their lives. Besides that, she is also a passionate writer and has published many health related articles, books, and journals over the past years.