Last updated: January 2026
Colic is extremely distressing but completely harmless - your baby is healthy, and this WILL end! Colic means intense crying for 3+ hours, 3+ days a week, in an otherwise healthy baby. It typically starts around 2-3 weeks, peaks at 6 weeks, and almost always resolves by 3-4 months. It is NOT your fault, and you are NOT doing anything wrong.
Watch: Low Breast Milk Supply? Why Stress Affects Breastfeeding #BreastfeedingTips
A baby is considered colicky if they cry:
| Age | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 2-3 weeks | Colic often begins |
| 6 weeks | Peak intensity (worst phase) |
| 8-12 weeks | Gradual improvement |
| 3-4 months | Usually resolves completely |
Reassurance: This is temporary. It feels endless now, but colic ALWAYS ends. Your baby will be fine, and so will you.
Crying Patterns:
Physical Signs During Episode:
Important: Between episodes, baby appears completely normal, feeds well, and gains weight normally.
| Normal Crying | Colic Crying |
|---|---|
| Has clear cause (hunger, diaper, sleep) | No obvious reason |
| Responds to soothing | Very hard to soothe |
| Varies in timing | Usually same time daily |
| Short duration | Hours at a stretch |
| Baby calms with feeding/holding | Nothing seems to work |
The exact cause is unknown, but possible factors include:
Possible Contributing Factors:
What Colic is NOT:
| Technique | How to Do It |
|---|---|
| **Swaddling** | Wrap baby snugly (arms in) - mimics womb |
| **Side/Stomach** | Hold baby on side or tummy (not for sleep!) |
| **Shushing** | Loud "shhhh" sounds near ear |
| **Swinging** | Gentle rhythmic motion |
| **Sucking** | Breastfeeding, pacifier, or clean finger |
Movement:
Sound:
Touch:
Environment:
Traditional Practices That May Help:
Important: Avoid giving gripe water or janam ghutti before 6 months. Baby's digestive system is too delicate.
Some babies react to foods in mother's diet:
Consider Eliminating (One at a Time):
How to Test:
Reassurance: Most breastfeeding mothers can eat normal diet. Food sensitivity affects minority of babies.
May Help:
Medical Treatments (As Prescribed):
What Doesn't Work:
You NEED to:
Warning Signs of Overwhelm:
If you feel this way: Put baby down safely and walk away. Call someone for help. This is normal to feel overwhelmed - it's a sign you need support, not that you're a bad parent.
A: If baby is otherwise healthy, feeding well, gaining weight, and this happens in the evening hours, it sounds like colic or the "witching hour." It's very common and VERY distressing, but it's normal and will pass. The key question: Is baby fine between episodes? If yes, it's likely colic.
A: Most colic resolves by 3-4 months of age. It peaks around 6 weeks (feels like forever!) and then gradually improves. Mark your calendar for the 12-week mark - most parents see significant improvement by then. Every week brings you closer to the end.
A: For most babies, no. But some babies (minority) are sensitive to things in mother's diet, especially dairy. If you suspect this, try eliminating dairy for 1-2 weeks and observe. Don't eliminate everything - that's not healthy for you or milk supply.
A: We don't recommend gripe water before 6 months. Baby's gut is too delicate for anything other than breast milk or formula. Many gripe waters contain unnecessary ingredients. If baby is over 6 months and you want to try, ask your pediatrician for a safe option.
A: Your feelings are completely valid. Colic is HARD. Take breaks - put baby in safe place and step away. Ask for help. It's okay to feel frustrated. If you're feeling overwhelmed or having scary thoughts, please reach out to your doctor or a mental health professional. This is temporary, and you will get through it.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Colic is one of the hardest phases of early parenting - but it ends. You're doing great by seeking information and trying to help your baby.
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