You’ve fed them, changed their diaper, checked their temperature, and still, the crying continues. It’s a piercing, relentless wail that seems to come from nowhere, often peaking in the late afternoon or evening. If this sounds familiar, you may be in the throes of a colicky baby—a bewildering, exhausting, and heartbreaking experience for any new parent. The feeling of helplessness in the face of a inconsolable baby is one of the most difficult challenges of early parenthood.
In medical terms, this period of a baby’s life is often referred to as purple crying—a way to describe the uncontrollable and mysterious nature of this phase, and to reassure parents that it is a normal part of development. This is not a guide to “fixing” colic, because its true cause remains a mystery. Instead, this is a survival guide—a toolbox of proven techniques and colic remedies to help you how to soothe colicky baby and, just as importantly, to help you survive this temporary but intense phase.
Part 1: What Exactly is Colic?
Colic is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means a pediatrician will only diagnose a baby with colic after ruling out other potential medical issues, such as a cow’s milk protein allergy, acid reflux (GERD), or an underlying illness. The official definition of colic is often referred to as “the Rule of Threes”:
- Crying for more than 3 hours a day.
- Happening at least 3 days a week.
- Lasting for at least 3 consecutive weeks.
Beyond the numbers, there are specific baby colic symptoms that can help you distinguish colicky crying from other types. The crying often occurs at the same time each day (most commonly in the evening), seems to have no specific cause, and is resistant to all attempts at soothing.
Common Symptoms:
- The baby clenches their fists, arches their back, or pulls their legs up to their tummy.
- Their face turns red or flushed.
- Their tummy may feel hard and distended, and they may pass gas.
While the exact cause is unknown, a combination of factors may contribute, including an immature digestive system, an imbalance of gut bacteria, or a sensitivity to something in the mother’s or formula’s diet. This is why many colic remedies are focused on providing gassy baby relief.
Part 2: The Colic Survival Toolbox: Proven Techniques
When the crying begins, it can feel like you have no tools to help. But there is a wide range of techniques that have been shown to provide relief, and the key is to keep trying different things until you find what works for your baby.
1. Swaddling for Colic
The feeling of a tight, secure swaddle can be incredibly calming for a colicky baby. It mimics the snug, comforting environment of the womb and prevents the baby’s own startle reflex from waking them up or causing them to flail. A proper swaddling for colic technique can provide a sense of security that a distressed baby desperately needs.
2. Movement and Motion
Babies are often calmed by a gentle rocking or swaying motion.
- Rocking: Use a rocking chair, a baby swing, or a gentle bounce on an exercise ball.
- Car Rides: The vibrations and motion of a car can be a magical cure for some babies. Just remember to use an approved car seat and never leave a baby unattended in a car.
- Babywearing: A front carrier or sling keeps your baby close to your body heat and heartbeat, while allowing you to move around freely.
3. Pressure and Massage
Gentle pressure on a baby’s abdomen can help relieve trapped gas and provide a soothing sensation.
- Colic Massage: Place your baby on their back and gently massage their tummy. A classic technique is the “I Love You” massage: use your fingers to trace an “I” on the left side of their tummy, then an inverted “L” across the top and down the left, and finally an inverted “U” all the way across.
- Tummy Time: Lay your baby on their tummy across your lap or on a firm surface. This can help to apply gentle pressure and aid in the passing of gas, providing gassy baby relief.
- Bicycle Legs: With your baby on their back, gently move their legs in a bicycling motion. This can also help to release trapped gas.
4. Sound and Sensation
- White Noise: The constant, low hum of a white noise machine or a fan can be a comforting sound that reminds them of the sounds of the womb.
- Shushing: Loudly shushing directly into your baby’s ear can mimic the sound of blood flow in the womb and can be surprisingly effective.
- Warmth: A warm bath or a warm towel placed on the baby’s tummy can be very soothing.
5. Feeding Adjustments
A baby’s feeding method and the amount of air they swallow during a feed can contribute to their discomfort.
- Burp Frequently: Burp your baby more often than you think you need to. Try burping them after every ounce during a bottle feed or when switching sides during a breastfeed.
- Anti-Colic Bottles: Many parents find relief with anti-colic bottles. These bottles are designed with vents or angled shapes to reduce the amount of air the baby swallows, which can help with gassy baby relief.
- Dietary Changes: If you are breastfeeding, your pediatrician may suggest you try eliminating certain foods from your diet, such as dairy or caffeine, to see if it makes a difference.
Part 3: The Parent Survival Guide
Colic doesn’t just affect the baby; it affects the entire family. It is vital to remember to take care of yourself during this difficult time.
- Hand Off the Baby: It’s okay to ask for help. Take turns with your partner or ask a friend or family member to hold the baby so you can take a break.
- Step Away: If you feel overwhelmed or frustrated, it is okay to put the baby down in their crib or bassinet, ensure they are safe, and step into another room for a few minutes to compose yourself. Taking a break is not a sign of failure; it is a sign of a responsible and caring parent.
- Remember It’s Not Your Fault: The most important thing to remember is that a colicky baby is not a reflection of your parenting skills.
The Light at the End of the Tunnel: When Does Colic End?
Perhaps the most important question for any parent of a colicky baby is when does colic end? The good news is that colic is a temporary developmental phase.
- Peak: Colic usually peaks around six weeks of age.
- Resolution: For most babies, colic begins to subside and usually resolves entirely by the time they are three to four months old.
The fact that it resolves on its own and is not caused by poor parenting or an underlying health condition is a huge source of relief. This phase will pass.By arming yourself with a variety of colic remedies, seeking support from your partner and family, and reminding yourself that this is a temporary stage, you can get through this challenging time. You are not alone, and both you and your baby will get to the other side.
Disclaimer: The following information is for educational purposes only. If you have concerns about your baby’s health, always consult with your pediatrician. The techniques described are meant to provide comfort and relief for a colicky baby and are not a substitute for professional medical advice.