Infant colic: causes and remedies
Colic is common in the first months. Here is what it is, why it happens, and how to ease your baby's discomfort.
Infant colic: causes and remedies
Colic is one of the most frustrating experiences for new parents. Your baby cries hard, appears to be in pain, and nothing seems to help. In most cases, however, colic is a temporary and harmless condition.
What is colic?
Colic is defined as a healthy newborn crying for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for at least 3 weeks. This is known as the "rule of three."
Colic crying is different from regular crying: it is more intense, higher-pitched, and the baby seems inconsolable.
When does it start and when does it end?
Colic usually begins around 2 to 3 weeks of age and peaks between 6 and 8 weeks. The good news: in the vast majority of cases, it resolves by 3 to 4 months.
Possible causes
Science has not yet identified a single cause. The leading theories include:
- Immature digestive system — the newborn's gut is still learning how to work
- Air swallowed during feeding — trapped air bubbles that cause discomfort
- Overstimulation — too many stimuli during the day that the baby "releases" in the evening
- Developing gut flora — the bacterial balance is not yet stable
Remedies that may help
Anti-colic positions
- Hold your baby tummy-down on your forearm (the "airplane hold")
- Keep them upright after feeds for at least 15 to 20 minutes
Movement
- Rhythmic rocking has a calming effect on the nervous system
- Walks in a baby carrier or sling can work wonders
- White noise (a hair dryer, vacuum cleaner, or a dedicated app) mimics the sounds of the womb
Feeding
- If you are breastfeeding, check the latch: a poor latch causes the baby to swallow more air
- If you are bottle-feeding, try anti-colic nipples
- Burp the baby halfway through and after each feed
When to worry
Colic is not dangerous, but some situations call for medical attention:
- The crying is accompanied by fever
- The baby is not gaining weight or refuses to feed
- There are traces of blood in the stool
- The baby appears lethargic when not crying
Colic passes. Hang in there, ask for help, and remember: it is not your fault.
