Having a new baby is exciting, but it can also be stressful—especially when your baby cries for long periods and nothing seems to help. If this sounds familiar, your baby may have colic, a common condition that affects about one in four babies.

The good news is that colic is temporary and does not mean your baby is unhealthy. Although it can be exhausting for parents, it usually improves as babies get older.

What Is Colic?

Colic is when a healthy baby cries often and for long periods without a clear reason. Symptoms usually peak around six weeks of age and often get better by three to four months. Colic is more common in the evening and at night, which can make parents feel tired, frustrated, and worried.

Key Signs of Colic

All babies get fussy sometimes, but colic is more intense. Your baby may have colic if they:

• Cry for more than 3 hours a day
• Cry more than 3 days a week
• Continue this pattern for at least 3 weeks

Babies with colic may also:

• Have loud, high-pitched crying that starts suddenly
• Be difficult to comfort
• Stiffen their arms and legs
• Arch their back
• Clench their fists

Before assuming your baby has colic, check for other possible causes of crying. Make sure your baby:

• Has a clean diaper
• Is not too hot or too cold
• Has been fed
• Has had enough sleep

When to Call Your Child’s Healthcare Provider

Some symptoms are not related to colic and should be checked by a healthcare provider right away. Contact your provider if your baby:

• Has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
• Seems less alert than usual
• Refuses to eat
• Has diarrhea or blood in the stool
• Is vomiting
• Is losing weight or not gaining weight as expected

How Is Colic Treated?

There is no cure for colic, but there are many ways to help calm your baby during a crying episode.

Try the “5 S’s”

Many parents find these soothing techniques helpful:

• Sway – Gently rock or sway your baby.
• Shhh – Make a soft shushing sound to create a calming background noise.
• Swaddle – Wrap your baby snugly in a lightweight blanket.
• Side or stomach hold – Hold your baby on their side or stomach while awake and in your arms.
• Sucking – Offer a pacifier if your baby is willing to use one.

Other Ways to Comfort Your Baby

• Hold your baby skin-to-skin.
• Gently rub or massage your baby’s tummy.
• Give your baby a warm bath.
• Place a warm, damp towel on their stomach.
• Take your baby for a walk outside.
• Burp your baby during and after feedings to help release gas.

Some parents also find that probiotic drops or products designed to relieve stomach gas may help. Always talk to your child’s healthcare provider before giving your baby any new supplement or medication.

What Causes Colic?

Unfortunately, doctors do not know exactly what causes colic. Some possible reasons may include:

• Gas or digestive discomfort
• A developing nervous system
• Sensitivity to light, noise, or other stimulation
• Air swallowed during feeding
• Differences in how babies respond to stress or excitement

Tips That May Help Prevent Colic

Because the exact cause is unknown, colic can be difficult to prevent completely.

While every baby is different, the following steps may help:

• Make sure your baby is positioned correctly during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding.
• Burp your baby after feedings.
• Avoid overfeeding.
• Feed your baby at a slow, comfortable pace.
• Hold bottle-fed babies in a more upright position during feedings.
• Choose bottle nipples that allow a steady flow of milk.

If you are breastfeeding, your healthcare provider may suggest changes to your diet if food sensitivities are suspected. Always discuss dietary changes with your healthcare provider before making them.

Fortunately, colic doesn’t last forever

Colic can be challenging for both babies and parents, but it is common and usually goes away with time. Gentle soothing techniques, patience, and support from your healthcare provider can help make this stage easier. If your baby’s symptoms seem unusual, worsen, or concern you, contact your child’s healthcare provider for guidance.