If you are a new mother, you’ve probably been there: your baby is crying, again, and you can’t do anything. It’s the kind of crying that starts out of nowhere and continues for hours.
Feeding? Checked. Diaper? Clean. Cuddles? Given. Still, the crying continues.
This might sound familiar if you’ve heard the word colic before.
But what exactly is colic? Is it something medically concerning, or is it just one of those rough patches babies go through? This question is a cause of much discussion, not only between parents but also among pediatricians and researchers. Let’s take a more detailed look at what colic really is – and whether it deserves a place in medical handbooks or simply in the “it’ll pass” category.
So, What is Colic Anyway?
Colic appears especially in infants who cry over three hours per day, for at least three days, three weeks or more a week – and who are otherwise healthy. It usually begins in the first few weeks of life, at the age of two to three weeks, and reaches the peak in about six weeks. By the time a child reaches a three or four-month stage, the colic usually decreases, almost as mysteriously as it began.
Crying becomes loud and can occur every day at the same time, usually late afternoon or evening. At this time, babies scrunch up their legs, arch their back, and may appear as if they are in pain – understandably worrying for any parent.
What Causes Colic? We’re Still Not 100% Sure
Here’s where things get tricky. Nobody really knows for certain what causes colic. There are a few theories, though. One idea is that a baby’s digestive system is still maturing, and that may lead to discomfort, gas, or trouble processing food. Another possibility involves gut bacteria—not enough of the “good” kind, maybe.
Other experts believe that sensory overload may be the issue. The newborns are learning about the world, and all new sounds and sensations can be overwhelming to them. When they are unable to handle it, they cry. Others believe that food sensitivity-like a breastfed baby reacting to something in the mother’s diet or a formula-oriented baby not tolerating the formula very well.
Then there’s the emotional side. Some babies are simply more sensitive. And if parents are stressed (and who wouldn’t be during endless crying spells?), babies might pick up on that tension.
Is It a Medical Issue—or Just a Rough Patch?
The Medical Perspective
Some healthcare providers see colic as a real medical issue.
After all, it has a name, a definition and symptoms that can be classified within clinical systems such as ICD (International Classification of Diseases). And it is certainly real in the sense that it can interfere with sleep, relationship, and welfare-equally to children and parents. Because of that, some feel that it should receive medical attention and possibly treatment, especially if food or digestive adjustment help to reduce symptoms.
Labeling it as a condition can also help parents feel validated. It’s not “just crying”—it’s something with a name and (sometimes) a treatment plan.
The Natural Phase Argument
But there’s also another take: maybe colic isn’t a medical problem at all. Some experts view it as a normal part of infancy that some babies experience more intensely than others.
From this point of view, the colic is the only phase – such as sleep regressions or teething – that babies grow out of with the passage of time.
The best argument for this perspective is that most babies improve on their own. They do not require medication or extensive intervention. Often, with patience and help, both parents and children survive.
Coping with Colic: What Can Parents Do?
Whatever you call it, Colic is difficult. The extended period of crying may make you feel ineffective and make a way beyond being tired. Good news? There are some things that you can do to make life a little easier.
Try Calming Techniques
Sometimes, the answer is simply calming down. Your child can relax with a soft rocking or wrapped in a swaddle. Wearing your baby in a sling or using white noise – can also be very effective. A warm bath now can also be beneficial.
Every baby is different, so it may take some experimenting to find what works.
Rethink Feeding
For breastfeeding mothers, some foods – such as dairy or caffeine – can affect a child’s digestive system. It may be worth trying to demolish suspected culprits from your diet for a few days. For babies on formula, switching to a hypoallergenic version may be beneficial.
However, even before changing anything significantly, touch the base with your pediatrician. It is important to meet other problems and receive expert advice.
Burp Often and Hold Upright
Gas may be uncomfortable for infants. Try burping your baby during and after meals, and keep them straight for a minimum of 20 minutes after meals. It helps with digestion and it can reduce the nuisance, especially if the child is the one who experiences reflux.
Consider Probiotics or Medicine
Other research indicates that probiotics, especially Lactobacillus reuteri, can reduce crying in infants. If your doctor agrees to this, it may be something to check. In some cases, they may also suggest using colic medicine for babies, especially if they have the reason to believe that the digestive discomfort is the problem. Always get a green light from your doctor before starting anything new for your child.
When to See a Doctor
Although colic itself is usually not problematic, there are times when you should definitely call a doctor. If your child has a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, or seems to be losing weight – or if something does not just feel right – trust your instincts and get checked out.
Sometimes, too much crying can be an indicator of something serious. A medical professional can rule out other causes and help you feel more confident in managing the situation.
The Bottom Line
Whatever you label colic as a condition or a phase, one thing is certain: it’s a bumpy ride. But it will come to an end. With patience, caring, and a bit of trial and error, you’ll survive it—and so will your baby.
Most importantly, don’t blame yourself. You’re not doing anything wrong. Some babies just cry more than others, and that’s okay. Eventually, the crying will ease up, and you’ll both move forward into calmer, quieter days.