Most colic improves naturally by 3-4 months. It typically starts at 2-3 weeks, peaks at 6 weeks, and often ends suddenly. There are no long-term effects, so rest assured.

How do you soothe a colicky baby?

The 5 S's technique is effective: Swaddling, Side/Stomach position (for soothing, not sleeping), Shushing, Swinging, and Sucking (pacifier). Tummy massage, white noise, and warm baths also help.

How can I tell colic apart from other illnesses?

If baby has fever over 100.4°F (38°C), projectile vomiting, blood in stool, poor weight gain, or crying all day (not just evenings), it may not be colic and requires a doctor visit.

Baby Colic Guide

A healthy baby crying intensely for no apparent reason - that's colic. It's incredibly hard, but it does end.

What is Colic?

When a healthy, well-fed baby cries for no obvious reason for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks. This is called the "Rule of 3s."

Timeline

Starts: Around 2-3 weeks old
Peaks: Around 6 weeks old
Ends: By 3-4 months old
Affects about 20-25% of babies

Symptoms

Sudden intense crying
Usually occurs in evening/night
Fists clenched, legs pulled toward belly
Face turns red
Difficult to soothe
Cries again shortly after feeding
Lots of gas and passing gas

Causes

The exact cause is still unknown:

Immature digestive system: Gas, stomach discomfort
Immature nervous system: Overstimulation
Gut bacteria: Imbalanced microbiome
Lactose intolerance: Temporary
Mother's diet: Dairy, caffeine effects
Overstimulation: Accumulated fatigue

Soothing Techniques

The 5 S's

Swaddling: Wrap snugly in a blanket
Side/Stomach: Hold on side (always put back to sleep on back)
Shushing: Make loud "shh" sounds
Swinging: Gentle rhythmic motion
Sucking: Offer pacifier

Tummy Massage

Circle around belly button clockwise
"I Love You" massage technique
Bicycle legs: Gently move legs alternately
Knees to chest: Gently press

Burping & Gas Relief

Burp during and after feeds
Hold upright for 10-15 minutes after feeding
Gas drops (simethicone): Effectiveness varies

Environment

White noise: Vacuum, hair dryer sounds
Vibration: Bouncer, car ride
Warm bath
Dark and quiet environment

Feeding Considerations

Breastfeeding

Check mom's diet: Reduce dairy, caffeine
Empty one breast fully before switching
Ensure baby gets hindmilk (fattier milk at end)
Probiotics (L. reuteri) may help

Formula Feeding

Try colic-relief formula
Hydrolyzed formula: Easier to digest
Anti-colic bottles: Reduce air intake
Check nipple flow rate

Taking Care of Yourself

Caring for a colicky baby is exhausting:

Take turns with partner/family
Don't blame yourself for the crying
Ask for help
If you're at your limit, put baby in a safe place and step away briefly
Never shake your baby: Risk of shaken baby syndrome

Important: If you ever feel overwhelmed and worried you might lose control, put your baby in a safe place (crib) and step away. Call someone for help. It's okay to take a break.

This is NOT Colic

See a doctor if these symptoms are present:

Fever: 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Vomiting: Projectile or forceful
Blood in stool
Poor weight gain
Diarrhea
Lethargy
Crying all day (not just evenings)

When Does It End?

Most improve by 3-4 months
Often ends suddenly
Babies who had colic grow up healthy
No long-term effects

Summary

Colic is incredibly difficult, but it's not baby's fault or parents' fault.

It will end. Hang in there. If you're struggling, ask for help. Don't try to handle it alone.

Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Mayo Clinic