colic risk reduction

Overview

Colic is a common condition where a healthy baby cries and fusses for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for at least three weeks. It usually starts when a baby is a few weeks old and gets better by the time they are four to six months old. The crying is not caused by a medical problem, and it is not your fault.

Yes. Colic is one of the most common reasons parents seek advice in the early months. It affects about 20% of babies.

Colic mostly affects healthy babies under 5 months old. It can happen to any baby, but it seems more common in babies born early (premature) and in babies whose parents smoke.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Crying that happens at the same time each day, often in the evening
• Crying for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week
• Clenched fists, a red face, and an arched back while crying
• Drawing knees up to the tummy or passing wind after feeding
• Babies may be hard to soothe, even with feeding, rocking, or cuddling

Symptoms in children

• Excessive crying not relieved by usual comforting
• Fussy behaviour after feeds
• Signs of wind or discomfort, such as squirming or pulling up legs

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of colic is not fully understood
• An immature digestive system that makes it hard to digest milk
• Wind or trapped gas that causes discomfort
• Overstimulation from lights, noise, or activity
• Sensitivity to components in breast milk or formula (such as cows' milk protein)

Risk factors

• Premature birth
• Maternal smoking during pregnancy
• Exposure to second-hand smoke after birth
• Parental stress or anxiety (though this is not a parent's fault)
• Use of certain infant formulas (though most babies do well on standard formula)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your local emergency number if your baby stops breathing, turns blue, is limp, or has a seizure.
• Seek same-day care if your baby is vomiting forcefully, has blood in their stool, or is not waking to feed.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Talk to your health visitor or GP if the crying is distressing you or if you want reassurance that there is no medical cause.
• It is always okay to ask for help if you are struggling to cope.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose colic based on the pattern of crying and a physical exam. They will ask about feeding, weight gain, and the baby's behaviour to rule out other causes.

Tests that may be done

• Usually no tests are needed
• A doctor may check the baby's weight and growth
• If there are signs of infection or another condition, a urine test or other checks may be recommended

What to expect at your appointment

Your healthcare provider will listen to your concerns, examine your baby, and discuss soothing techniques. They will also reassure you about what is normal. If they suspect another problem, they will guide you through the next steps.

Treatment

There is no single cure for colic, but many soothing strategies can help. The most important thing is to comfort your baby while also looking after yourself. You may need to try several approaches before finding what works.

Self-care at home

• Hold your baby gently and rock, sway, or walk with them
• Use a pacifier (dummy) if your baby wants to suck
• Try a warm bath or a gentle tummy massage
• Play white noise or gentle rhythmic sounds
• Wrap your baby snugly in a blanket (swaddle) to help them feel secure
• Feed in an upright position and burp frequently
• Take a break: put your baby down in a safe place for a few minutes if you feel overwhelmed

Medical treatments

A doctor or health visitor might suggest trying a different feeding approach or, in some cases, a short course of probiotic drops or anti-colic medicine. Always speak to your pharmacist, health visitor, or GP before giving any medicine or supplement to a baby.

Living with this condition

Caring for a colicky baby can be exhausting. It helps to plan your day, accept help, and remind yourself that this phase will pass. Try to take shifts with a partner or family member so you can rest.

Lifestyle tips

• Rest when the baby sleeps, even during the day
• Share night-time feeds and soothing duties with your partner
• Get outside for fresh air each day, if possible
• Limit visitors and loud activities if your baby seems overstimulated
• Keep a simple diary of crying times to see if any pattern or trigger emerges

Diet and exercise

If you are breastfeeding, some healthcare professionals suggest keeping a food diary to see if your baby is sensitive to something you eat, like cows' milk. But do not change your diet without speaking to your health visitor or GP. For yourself, gentle exercise like walking with the pram can boost your mood and give you a break.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Persistent crying can make you feel frustrated, anxious, or depressed. These feelings are normal. If you are worried about harming your baby or yourself, it is very important to get help right away. Remember to put your baby down in a safe place and step away briefly if you feel overwhelmed.

Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to prevent colic, but some habits might reduce the risk, such as avoiding smoke around your baby, feeding in an upright position, and being gentle with your baby's tummy. Early, responsive care does not cause colic and will not spoil your baby.

Complications

If left untreated

• Colic itself does not cause long-term harm to a baby
• Without support, parents may experience severe stress, exhaustion, or postpartum depression
• In very rare cases, a frustrated parent might shake a baby, which is dangerous and can cause brain injury

Long-term outlook

The good news is that colic goes away on its own. By 4 to 6 months, most babies are much calmer and happier. You are doing your best, and the difficult weeks will not last forever.

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