Safely administering pain relief to your little one

Seeing your baby in discomfort is never easy, and knowing how to safely manage their pain can bring relief to both of you. Whether it is teething, a mild illness or post-vaccination soreness, here is a practical guide to administering pain relief to your little one.

Important: This article is for general information only. Always consult your GP, health visitor or pharmacist before giving any medication to your baby, particularly if they are under three months old or have any existing health conditions.

Recognising When Your Baby Needs Pain Relief

Babies cannot tell you when they are in pain, so it is important to watch for common signs:

• Persistent crying or fussiness that is out of character
• Difficulty sleeping or feeding
• Pulling at ears (which may indicate ear pain)
• Flushed cheeks, drooling and biting (signs of teething)
• A raised temperature

If your baby seems unwell or in discomfort, it is always worth checking their temperature with a reliable digital thermometer.

Types of Infant Pain Relief

There are two main types of over-the-counter pain relief suitable for babies:

• Paracetamol (e.g. Calpol) — Suitable from two months of age if your baby was born after 37 weeks and weighs more than 4kg. It helps reduce fever and relieve mild to moderate pain.
• Ibuprofen (e.g. Nurofen for Children) — Suitable from three months of age and a weight of at least 5kg. It is an anti-inflammatory as well as a pain reliever, making it particularly effective for teething pain.

Getting the Dosage Right

Always follow the dosage instructions on the packaging carefully, as the correct dose depends on your baby’s age and weight. Key points to remember:

• Use the syringe or measuring spoon provided — never guess the amount
• Do not exceed the recommended number of doses in a 24-hour period
• Leave the correct interval between doses (usually four to six hours)
• Never give both paracetamol and ibuprofen at the same time unless advised by a healthcare professional

Managing Teething Pain

Teething is one of the most common reasons parents reach for pain relief. Alongside medication, you can try these soothing strategies:

• Chilled teething rings — The cool surface soothes sore gums (never freeze them)
• Gentle gum massage — Use a clean finger to rub your baby’s gums
• Distraction — Sometimes a change of scenery, a cuddle or a favourite toy can help

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice promptly if your baby:

• Is under three months old with a temperature of 38°C or above
• Has a temperature that does not respond to pain relief
• Is unusually drowsy, limp or unresponsive
• Has a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass
• Refuses feeds for an extended period
• Shows signs of dehydration (fewer wet nappies, dry mouth)

Trust your instincts. If something does not feel right, it is always better to seek professional advice. Your GP surgery, NHS 111 and your health visitor are all there to help.