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Understanding Colic

A guide to understanding colic, comforting your baby, and knowing when to seek support.

1. What is colic?

Colic is commonly defined as frequent, prolonged crying in an otherwise healthy baby, often described as crying for more than 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for 3 weeks or more.
It typically begins within the first few weeks of life, often peaks around 6 weeks, and usually improves by 3–4 months of age.
The exact cause of colic is unknown. It is not your fault and is not a sign of poor parenting.

2. Ways to soothe your baby

Hold your baby close and try gentle rocking, swaying, walking, or skin-to-skin contact.
Use calming sounds such as white noise, gentle shushing, or soft lullabies.
Try a warm bath, a fresh nappy, or a change of environment if your baby seems overstimulated.
If appropriate for your baby's age and local guidance, a pacifier (dummy) or other soothing techniques may help satisfy their natural sucking reflex.

3. Things you can try

Keep baby upright during and after feeds: holding your baby upright for a short period after feeding may help if swallowed air or reflux is contributing to discomfort.
Burp during and after feeds: gentle burping can help release swallowed air.
Try gentle movement: rocking, walking, gentle swaying, or using a baby carrier may help some babies settle.
Skin-to-skin contact: holding your baby close against your chest can be calming and reassuring.
Try gentle tummy massage: some babies find gentle clockwise massage soothing. Stop if your baby becomes more distressed.
Bicycle legs: gently moving your baby's legs in a cycling motion may help release trapped wind.
Reduce stimulation: a quiet, dimly lit room and gentle background noise may help if your baby is overstimulated.
Check feeding technique: a healthcare professional can check breastfeeding latch, bottle technique, teat flow and feeding position.
Don't incline the cot: even if a cot or crib has an adjustable/incline function, babies should sleep flat on their back on a firm, level sleep surface. Never use pillows, wedges or rolled towels to prop up a baby during sleep.
Breastfeeding and diet: there is no universally proven "colic diet." Some babies may appear sensitive to particular foods, but mothers should not routinely eliminate foods such as nuts without professional advice. If you suspect a food intolerance or allergy, speak to a healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes.
Herbal drinks such as ajwain (carom) or jeera (cumin) tea: these are traditionally used in some cultures, but there is not enough good-quality evidence to say they treat colic. If breastfeeding, discuss herbal products or supplements with a healthcare professional, particularly when breastfeeding a young or medically vulnerable baby.
Avoid unproven remedies: gripe water, herbal preparations, supplements and changes of formula should not be introduced routinely without discussing them with a healthcare professional.

4. The important part about colic

The exact cause of colic is not fully understood, and there is no single proven treatment or guaranteed cure.
Colic is thought to have multiple possible contributing factors, and what helps one baby may not help another.
In most babies, colic gradually improves with time.

5. Feeding and colic

Burp your baby during and after feeds, and keep them upright for a short period afterwards if advised by your healthcare provider.
If breastfeeding, ensure your baby has a comfortable latch. If bottle feeding, ask your healthcare provider about paced bottle feeding and appropriate bottle techniques.
Speak to a healthcare professional before changing your baby's formula or making significant changes to your own diet while breastfeeding.

6. Looking after yourself

Caring for a baby with colic can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Ask a partner, family member, or trusted friend for support whenever possible.
If you feel overwhelmed, place your baby safely on their back in their cot or another safe sleep space and take a few moments to regain your composure.
Remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not failure.

7. When to seek medical advice

Seek medical advice promptly if your baby has a fever, persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, blood in their stool, or an unusual rash.
Seek medical advice if your baby is feeding poorly, has fewer wet nappies than expected, is difficult to wake, unusually sleepy, floppy, or has difficulty breathing.
Seek medical advice if your baby cries differently than usual, seems to be in severe pain, or you are concerned something isn't right.
If you are finding it difficult to cope emotionally, speak with a healthcare professional or a trusted support service.

8. Trust your instincts

You know your baby best. If you are concerned about your baby's health or behaviour, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

9. Disclaimer

This information is intended for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Babies can become unwell quickly, and symptoms may vary. If you are concerned about your baby's health or believe they need urgent medical attention, contact your healthcare provider or local emergency services immediately.

When in doubt, ask a professional

This guide is for general information only. If you're worried about your baby's health or feeding, speak with your GP, health visitor, or paediatrician.