Dealing with baby colic can be incredibly challenging. You’ve fed your baby, changed their diaper, rocked them gently… and they’re still crying. For hours. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many parents go through this exhausting phase, often referred to as baby colic.
Colic refers to frequent, intense crying in otherwise healthy babies, usually for more than 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for over 3 weeks. It typically starts around 2–3 weeks of age, peaks at 6–8 weeks, and gradually eases by 3–4 months.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), colic in infants is not a disease but a temporary developmental phase. The exact cause isn’t clear, but it’s thought to be related to immature digestion, overstimulation, or a baby’s developing nervous system.
The good news? It eventually passes. With the right soothing techniques, you can make these tough weeks easier, for your baby and for yourself.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- This phase can feel long and exhausting, but it does not harm your baby’s health.
- Colic crying often gets worse in the evening or at night, which can be the most challenging time for parents.
- You are not alone. Many parents go through this stage, so there’s no need to feel guilty.
- Sometimes, just your touch and presence can calm your baby. Your comfort, patience, and love are the most powerful tools.
In the next section, we’ll explore practical, effective ways to soothe your baby and simple tips to maintain peace at home, so both you and your little one can get some relief.
Common Signs of Colic
It can be tricky to tell whether your baby’s crying is normal fussiness or colic. Watch for these patterns:
Crying is a normal way for babies to communicate, they cry when they’re hungry, tired, need a diaper change, or simply want to be held. However, colic crying is different. It’s more intense, more frequent, and harder to soothe than regular fussiness.
Here’s what to look for:
- Predictable timing: Colic crying often follows a pattern, typically starting in the late afternoon or evening, and lasting for several hours.
- Intensity: The crying is usually louder, higher-pitched, and more urgent than a normal cry. It may come suddenly and for no clear reason.
- Inconsolable behavior: Comforting methods that usually help (feeding, rocking, or diaper change) don’t seem to calm the baby.
- Body language: You might notice your baby clenching fists, arching their back, tensing their belly, or pulling legs toward the chest as if in pain.
- Facial changes: The face may become red, flushed, or strained while crying.
- Gassiness or tummy trouble: Babies with colic often appear gassy, bloated, or uncomfortable, sometimes passing gas or stool during or after a crying spell.
- Sudden calm after crying: After a long episode, the crying may stop abruptly, leaving your baby tired or drowsy.
If your baby is feeding well, gaining weight, and appears healthy between episodes, chances are it’s colic rather than a more serious issue.
Important: Always check with your pediatrician to rule out other possible causes like acid reflux, milk allergies, or ear infections.
Why Colic Happens: Possible Causes
The exact reason why some babies experience colic is still not fully understood, but doctors and researchers believe it’s likely caused by a combination of physical, emotional, and environmental factors.
Every baby is different, what triggers colic in one child may not affect another.
- Immature Digestive System
A newborn’s digestive system is still developing.
During the first few weeks:
- The gut is learning how to process and move milk efficiently.
- Digestive enzymes and healthy bacteria are still balancing out.
- Small gas bubbles can get trapped, causing cramping or discomfort.
That’s why babies with colic often show signs like a tight belly, squirming, or pulling up their legs after feeding.
- Gas or Swallowing Air
When babies cry excessively or feed too quickly, they tend to swallow air.
This trapped air builds up in the stomach and intestines, leading to gas, bloating, and pain.
- The wrong bottle nipple size or a fast milk flow can worsen this.
- Burping your baby frequently during and after feeds can help reduce discomfort.
- Overstimulation
Newborns are highly sensitive to their surroundings, light, sound, touch, and movement.
When they receive too much stimulation, their developing nervous system becomes overwhelmed, and they cry as a way to release tension.
Keeping the environment calm and maintaining a consistent routine can often help prevent overstimulation and reduce colic episodes.
- Reflux or Sensitivity to Milk or Formula
Some babies experience acid reflux, where milk flows back from the stomach into the esophagus, causing irritation and crying.
Others may be sensitive to cow’s milk protein or certain ingredients in formula.
Even breastfed babies can react to something in the mother’s diet, such as dairy, caffeine, or spicy foods.
- Developing Nervous System
Your baby’s brain and nervous system are still learning how to regulate emotions and responses.
They haven’t yet mastered self-soothing, so even small discomforts or noises can feel overwhelming, leading to long bouts of crying.
- Emotional and Environmental Factors
Babies are deeply connected to their caregivers’ emotions.
If the environment is tense, noisy, or stressful, the baby can pick up on that energy and become unsettled.
This doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong, it simply shows how sensitive and intuitive infants are.
Other Theories and Contributing Factors
Researchers are exploring additional possibilities, including:
- Imbalance of gut bacteria (microbiome)
- Hormonal factors, such as immature melatonin rhythms (which affect sleep and crying cycles)
- Changes in temperature or light exposure
- Overfeeding or fast milk letdown reflex in breastfeeding mothers
Remember
Colic does not mean you’re doing anything wrong or that something is seriously wrong with your baby.
It’s simply a temporary developmental stage, most babies outgrow it naturally by the age of 3 to 4 months.
Patience, love, and gentle comfort go a long way, both for your baby and for you.
For more insights on colic and its causes, you can visit the Mayo Clinic’s page on Colic – Symptoms and Causes.
Practical Tips to Soothe a Colicky Baby
When your baby is crying uncontrollably, it can be distressing. Try these research-backed comfort techniques:
1. Follow the “5 S’s” Method (by Dr. Harvey Karp)
This soothing technique mimics the womb’s calming sensations.
- Swaddle: Wrap your baby snugly in a soft blanket to make them feel secure.
- Side or Stomach Position: Hold your baby on their side or stomach (only while awake and supervised).
- Shush: Use a white noise machine, fan, or soft “shhh” sound, rhythmic noise soothes them.
- Swing: Gentle rocking, bouncing, or using a baby swing helps calm crying spells.
- Suck: Offer a pacifier, sucking releases calming hormones.
2. Create a Calm Environment
One of the most effective ways to comfort a colicky baby is by creating a peaceful, consistent, and safe atmosphere.
A calm environment helps your baby’s nervous system relax and reduces overstimulation, which can ease crying spells.
3. Try Baby Massage
When your baby is gassy or colicky, a gentle tummy massage can be one of the most effective and natural ways to bring relief.
It helps release trapped gas, improves digestion, and relaxes your baby’s body and mind.
4. Check Feeding Techniques
Feeding your baby the right way can make a big difference in reducing colic and gas discomfort.
Incorrect positions, fast milk flow, or swallowing too much air can all lead to tummy pain and excessive crying.
5. Warm Bath or Skin-to-Skin Contact
A warm bath helps relax your baby’s muscles and ease gas or tummy discomfort.
Keep the water lukewarm (close to body temperature) and gently place your baby in the water.
After the bath, dry them with a soft towel and dress them warmly for comfort.
Skin-to-skin contact offers instant calm and security.
Hold your baby, wearing only a diaper, against your bare chest and cover their back with a light blanket.
This closeness helps regulate your baby’s heartbeat, breathing, and body temperature, bringing a deep sense of comfort and connection.
Both techniques are natural, soothing, and safe ways to comfort a colicky baby.
6. Try White Noise or Gentle Sounds
Gentle sounds like a fan, soft music, or a white noise app can mimic the comforting sounds your baby heard in the womb.
This creates a safe and soothing environment, helping your baby calm down more quickly.
Tips:
- Keep the volume low and steady, never too loud.
- Sounds like lullabies, rainfall, ocean waves, or heartbeat rhythms work best.
- White noise helps block sudden noises and promotes better sleep for your baby.
It’s a simple, natural, and safe way to comfort a colicky baby and help them relax.
7. Take a Walk
Gentle motion can quickly soothe a fussy or colicky baby.
Try taking your baby for a short stroller walk, carrying them in a baby carrier, or going for a brief car ride.
The rhythmic movement mimics the rocking sensations of the womb, helping your baby calm down or fall asleep.
Tips:
- Choose a quiet, safe area for walks.
- Dress your baby comfortably for the weather.
- If going outside isn’t possible, walk or sway gently indoors, it can be just as effective.
A simple, natural way to bring instant comfort and relaxation to a colicky baby.
8. Watch Your Diet (If Breastfeeding)
Sometimes, certain foods in your diet can make your baby more gassy or colicky.
Common triggers include caffeine (coffee, tea), spicy foods, and dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt).
Try removing one food group at a time for a few days to see if your baby’s symptoms improve.
Tips:
- Limit caffeine and avoid overly spicy meals.
- Eat simple, balanced, and nutritious foods.
- Always consult your doctor or lactation specialist before making major diet changes.
The right diet can ease your baby’s colic and help you stay healthy and energized, too.
For more trusted tips on colic relief, visit: HealthyChildren.org – Colic.
Caring for Yourself During Colic
Colic doesn’t just exhaust babies, it challenges parents too.
Sleepless nights, endless crying, and feelings of helplessness can take a toll.
Here’s how to take care of yourself while caring for your baby:
- Take shifts with your partner or a trusted family member.
- Put the baby down safely in their crib for a few minutes if you feel overwhelmed, it’s okay to take a break.
- Don’t blame yourself. Colic is not your fault.
- Seek support. Join a parenting group or talk to other parents, you’re not alone.
If you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or tearful, reach out to your healthcare provider.
A calm parent helps create a calm baby.
When to Call the Doctor
Most colic resolves on its own, but sometimes excessive crying can signal a medical issue.
Contact your pediatrician if your baby:
- Has a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Isn’t feeding or gaining weight properly
- Has blood in stool or persistent bloating
- Cries weakly or with a high-pitched, painful sound
Your doctor may recommend checking for reflux, allergies, or other conditions, or suggest gentle remedies like simethicone drops or probiotics if appropriate. See NHS when to seek help and NIDDK reflux overviews.
How Long Does Colic Last?
The hardest part of colic is knowing when it will end.
Typically, colic improves by 3 to 4 months of age, though some babies take a bit longer.
With consistent care, patience, and comfort, your baby will outgrow it, and those long nights will turn into peaceful ones.
FAQs: Common Questions About Baby Colic
1. Can I prevent colic?
Not completely, but you can reduce discomfort by ensuring good feeding techniques, regular burping, and avoiding overstimulation.
2. Does colic mean my baby has a stomach problem?
Not usually. Most babies with colic are perfectly healthy, their digestive and nervous systems are just maturing.
3. Should I try gripe water or gas drops?
Some parents find mild relief with gripe water or simethicone, but always check with your pediatrician first.
4. Can probiotics help with colic?
Some studies suggest Lactobacillus reuteri probiotics may reduce crying in breastfed babies. Discuss with your doctor before use.
5. How can I stay calm during long crying spells?
Remind yourself, it’s temporary. Step outside for fresh air, listen to music, or take turns soothing with your partner.
Final Thoughts: This Too Shall Pass
Colic can make even the calmest parent feel helpless, but it’s just a phase, one that will soon fade.
Your baby isn’t crying at you, they’re crying for you. They need your comfort, presence, and patience.
So breathe, hold your baby close, and remember:
You’re doing better than you think.
At Parenting Stories, we believe love, patience, and small daily acts of care make the biggest difference.
Colic will pass, but the bond you’re building will last a lifetime.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Always consult your pediatrician or qualified healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your baby’s health, feeding, or prolonged crying.
Never ignore professional medical guidance or delay seeking help because of something you’ve read online.
