Hours-long bouts of inconsolable crying that begin as evening sets in... In a healthy, well-gaining baby, crying for more than 3 hours a day and more than 3 days a week is called "infantile colic," and it affects one in every five babies. The good news: it leaves no lasting harm and resolves on its own.

Why Does It Happen?

The exact cause is unknown; the immaturity of the digestive system, irregular bowel movements, the gut flora, and the baby's load of stimulation all play a role together. "Gas" is most often less a cause than a consequence of air swallowed during crying.

Evidence-Based Soothing Methods

The 5S Method (Dr. Karp):

  1. Swaddling (swaddle-like, with the hips free)
  2. Side/stomach position
  3. Shushing — "shhhh" / white noise
  4. Swinging — small, rhythmic motions
  5. Sucking — offer a pacifier

Others:

  • Hold upright after feeding and burp (10-15 min)
  • Clockwise tummy massage + bicycle motion
  • Warm bath
  • Probiotics (L. reuteri) — shown to be effective in breastfed colicky babies; consult your doctor

If These Signs Are Present, It Is Not Colic — See a Doctor

  • Vomiting (especially projectile/green)
  • Bloody/mucousy stools → may be a cow's milk allergy
  • Failure to gain weight, refusal to feed
  • Fever, crying that lasts all day long
  • Crying that begins or continues after 4 months

A Note to Parents

Colic is not your fault. If you feel overwhelmed, it is normal to place the baby in a safe spot and take a few minutes to breathe — never shake the baby.