There’s nothing quite as heart-tugging as a baby’s cry. For first-time parents, it can be both confusing and exhausting—especially when the crying seems endless and nothing seems to help. If your baby cries for hours every day but otherwise seems healthy, it may be infantile colic.
What Is Colic?
Colic is the term doctors use for frequent, intense crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It usually follows the “Rule of Threes”:
It typically starts around 2 to 3 weeks of age, peaks at 6 weeks, and often fades away by 3 to 4 months.
Why Does It Happen?
The exact cause of colic remains unknown, but several factors may contribute:
- Immature digestive system: Babies are still learning how to handle milk, swallow air, and move gas through their gut.
- Swallowing air during feeds: This can cause bloating.
- Overstimulation: Newborns have developing senses; too much noise, light, or handling can overwhelm them.
- Intolerances (Rare): Cow’s milk protein intolerance or sensitivity to something in the mother’s diet.
- Normal temperament: Some babies are simply more sensitive and expressive than others.
Importantly, colic is not your fault and more often than not, doesn’t mean your baby is sick.
How to Soothe a Colicky Baby?
While there’s no single magic cure, small comforting techniques can make a big difference:
- 1 Hold your baby close: Rocking, swaddling, or skin-to-skin contact can be deeply calming.
- 2 Try rhythmic movement: Walk, sway, or use a baby carrier. The motion often helps.
- 3 Offer gentle sounds: White noise, a soft “shhh,” or a fan can mimic womb sounds.
- 4 Burp frequently: Especially after feeds for 10-15 minutes.
- 5 Warm compress: A warm cloth on the tummy can relax abdominal muscles.
- 6 Check diet (if breastfeeding): Avoiding caffeine, spicy foods, or dairy might help.
And sometimes, the best thing you can do is take a deep breath and take turns—hand over to a partner or family member when you feel overwhelmed.
When to Call the Doctor
Seek medical advice if:
- Your baby isn’t feeding well or is losing weight.
- Vomiting green/blood-stained fluid or in large amounts.
- Has a swollen tummy or fever.
- The cry sounds unusually high-pitched or weak.
These are not typical of colic and need medical evaluation.
The Good News
Colic always improves. By 3 to 4 months, most babies outgrow it entirely, leaving behind stronger digestion and calmer days. Until then, remember: you’re not alone, and your baby’s cries aren’t a reflection of your care—they’re just their tiny way of learning how to adjust to the world!!!
HAPPY PARENTING :)
