Colic is long bouts of crying in an otherwise healthy, well-fed baby. It affects up to 1 in 5 babies, usually starts at around 2 weeks old, peaks at about 6 weeks and is gone for most babies by 3 to 4 months. It isn’t caused by anything you did, and it doesn’t harm your baby, but it can be exhausting.
Signs of colic
Doctors often use the “rule of 3s”: crying for more than 3 hours a day, on more than 3 days a week, for at least 3 weeks, in a baby who is otherwise healthy and growing well. Colicky crying often:
- Happens at the same time each day, often late afternoon or evening
- Sounds intense, like screaming, and is hard to soothe
- Comes with a red face, clenched fists, arched back or legs pulled up to the tummy
What causes it?
No one knows for sure. Likely factors include an immature gut, swallowed air, sensitivity to stimulation and, in a small number of babies, cow’s milk protein allergy or reflux.
Soothing techniques that help
- Hold and rock your baby, or carry them in a sling
- White noise, such as a fan, a white-noise app or a gentle “shhh”
- Motion: a walk in the stroller or a drive in the car seat
- Swaddling in a light blanket, keeping the hips loose
- A warm bath, followed by a gentle tummy massage in clockwise circles. Some parents use a mild baby massage product such as Himalaya Baby Tummy Roll On; patch-test first and avoid broken skin.
- Feeding tips: burp often, keep baby more upright during feeds, and check the bottle teat flow isn’t too fast
What about remedies?
- Simethicone gas drops are safe, but studies haven’t shown they work better than a placebo.
- Probiotic drops (Lactobacillus reuteri) may reduce crying time in breastfed babies. Ask your pediatrician.
- Diet changes: if your pediatrician suspects cow’s milk protein allergy, they may suggest a special formula or a dairy-free trial for a breastfeeding mother. Don’t switch formulas repeatedly without advice.
- Gripe water and herbal teas have little evidence. Never give honey to a baby under 1 year old.
Look after yourself too
Hours of crying are hard on any parent. If you feel overwhelmed, it’s OK to put your baby down safely in their crib and step away for a few minutes. Ask a partner, friend or family member to take over. Never shake a baby. If you’re struggling, talk to your pediatrician or a helpline.
When to call a doctor
Call your pediatrician if your baby:
- Is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
- Vomits often, or the vomit is green, bloody or forceful
- Has blood in their stool, or diarrhea
- Isn’t feeding well, has fewer wet diapers or isn’t gaining weight
- Has a weak, high-pitched or unusual cry, or seems floppy or very sleepy
- Has crying that starts after 4 months, or follows a fall or injury
Call 911 if your baby has trouble breathing, turns blue, or can’t be woken.
Frequently asked questions
How long does colic last?
It usually peaks at around 6 weeks and stops by 3 to 4 months of age.
Is colic caused by gas?
Babies with colic often seem gassy, but gas is more likely a result of crying and swallowing air than the cause.
Can colic harm my baby?
No. Colic itself doesn’t cause lasting harm, but always check with a doctor to rule out other causes of crying.
This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from your pediatrician.
