This article is for general information only and does not replace medical advice. If in doubt, contact your paediatrician or midwife.
Baby Colic
Colic (3-month colic) affects up to 20% of all babies. Typical: hours of inconsolable crying, especially in the evening. It sounds awful — but colic passes and leaves no lasting effects.
Possible Causes
- 1Immature digestive system — the gut needs to adjust to food
- 2Overstimulation — too many impressions during the day, baby processes in the evening
- 3Gas accumulation in the gut (wind)
- 4Cow's milk protein intolerance (in about 5% of colic babies)
- 5No single definite cause known — likely multiple factors together
What You Can Do
- Tummy massage clockwise with warm oil
- Tiger hold: carry baby face-down on your forearm
- Swaddling: snug wrapping provides security (not too warm)
- White noise: hairdryer, vacuum, white noise app
- Carrying: baby carrier or sling, gentle rocking
- Simethicone drops — effectiveness varies individually
- Probiotics (L. reuteri) — studies show moderate effect in breastfed babies
When to See a Doctor
- Baby is not gaining weight or losing weight
- Vomiting (not just spitting up) after every feed
- Blood in stool
- Crying is SUDDENLY new (after weeks without crying)
- Baby has fever along with crying
- YOU feel overwhelmed or afraid of harming the baby → GET HELP immediately (crying clinic, crisis hotline)
Age-Specific Notes
Colic typically starts at weeks 2-3, peaks at weeks 6-8, and almost always ends by month 3-4. 'Rule of threes': More than 3 hours, more than 3 days per week, more than 3 weeks = colic. But: Even if it's less, it's OK to feel overwhelmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are colic my fault?
Should I change my diet while breastfeeding?
When does colic stop?
Weekly tips for you
Personalised info for your stage — free, no spam.
Question about Baby Colic?
Our AI answers instantly — with empathy and evidence.
This article is for general information only. It does not replace individual medical advice. If you have concerns, contact your paediatrician, midwife, or call emergency services.