Why Your Baby Is Colicky: Causes & Solutions

If you're a new parent and your baby is crying for hours each day and nothing seems to calm them down, you're not alone. Many babies go through a phase of being “colicky”- where they cry a lot even when they’re not hungry, tired, or needing a nappy change. This constant crying can be exhausting and upsetting for both the baby and the parents. But don’t worry- colic is common and usually not a sign of anything serious. The good news is, it tends to go away on its own as your baby grows.

Colic is when a healthy baby cries a lot more than usual and for no clear reason. Doctors often describe it using the “rule of threes”:

• Crying for more than 3 hours a day
• At least 3 days a week
• For 3 weeks or more

Colicky crying often happens in the late afternoon or evening, and it can feel like nothing works to soothe your baby. They may clench their fists, pull their knees to their tummy, arch their back, or turn red from crying.

Colic usually starts when a baby is around 2 to 3 weeks old, gets worse around 6 weeks, and tends to get better by 3 to 4 months of age.

There isn’t one single cause of colic, but there are a few common things that might be making your baby uncomfortable. Understanding what’s going on can help you find ways to help them feel better.

1. Your Baby’s Tummy Is Still Developing

One of the biggest reasons babies get colicky is that their digestive system (the tummy and intestines) is still learning how to work properly. When food isn’t digested well, it can cause gas, bloating, and tummy pain - all of which make babies cry.
Since their stomach muscles and intestines are still developing, food might move slowly, which adds to their discomfort. This usually improves as your baby gets older.

2. Sensitivity to Certain Foods

Some babies have trouble digesting certain proteins. If you’re breastfeeding, your baby might react to things you eat, like cow’s milk or spicy foods. If your baby is on formula, they might be sensitive to an ingredient in it.

Signs of food sensitivity can include crying, bloating, wind, or even loose stools (diarrhoea). If you think something in the milk (or your diet) is bothering your baby, talk to your doctor. They may recommend changes to your diet or switching to a different formula.

3. Feeding Too Much or Too Little

Feeding habits can affect your baby’s tummy. If your baby is fed too much, it can stretch their stomach and make them uncomfortable. It can also cause them to swallow more air, which adds to gassiness.

Feeding too little can also make them cry out of hunger. Babies grow quickly and need regular feeds to feel full and settled. Making sure your baby is getting the right amount for their age is important to avoid both overfeeding and underfeeding.

4. Swallowing Air While Feeding

Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, babies can swallow air if the latch isn’t right. This air builds up in their stomach and intestines and can cause gas, burping, or tummy pain.

You can help by:

• Making sure your baby latches properly during breastfeeding
• Using anti-colic bottles if you’re bottle-feeding
• Burping your baby after every feed to release trapped air

5. Too Much Noise or Stress Around the Baby

Babies are very sensitive to their surroundings. Loud noises, bright lights, or too many visitors can overwhelm them. Even stress from parents can affect the baby’s mood and make them cry more.

Try to keep your baby’s space calm, quiet, and peaceful. Soft music, dim lighting, and cuddling can help comfort a fussy baby.

6. Baby’s Nervous System Is Still Developing

In the first few months, your baby is still learning how to deal with the world. Their brain and nervous system are developing, so they may find it hard to handle too much stimulation (like loud sounds or strong smells). They also may not know how to calm themselves down yet.

As your baby grows, they’ll start to settle more easily, and the long crying spells will reduce. This is why most babies outgrow colic by around 4 months.

There’s no magic cure for colic, but there are several things you can do to comfort your baby and make this phase easier for both of you.

• Burp Your Baby Often: This helps release any air they swallowed during feeding.
• Try a Warm Bath: Warm water can be soothing and may help your baby relax.
• Give a Gentle Tummy Massage: Use gentle circular motions to help move trapped gas.
• Hold or Rock Your Baby: Cuddling or gently rocking can calm a fussy baby.
• Use White Noise or Soft Music: Background noise can sometimes help babies settle.
• Give Tummy Time: A few minutes a day on their tummy (under supervision) can help ease gas and strengthen their muscles.

Yes, Colicaid Drops are often used to help relieve colic symptoms in babies. These drops are made with a mix of ingredients that help reduce gas and ease tummy pain:

• Simethicone: Helps break up gas bubbles in the stomach so your baby can pass wind more easily.
• Dill Oil and Fennel Oil: Natural oils that help soothe the tummy and reduce cramps and bloating.
• Colicaid Drops are available over-the-counter, but it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before giving your baby any medicine, even safe ones like this. Your doctor can guide you on the right dose and how often to use it.
• Many parents find that Colicaid Drops provide relief and make their baby more comfortable during the colicky phase.

Colic is usually not serious, but sometimes it can be confused with other conditions. Talk to your doctor if:

• Your baby is not gaining weight
• They have vomiting, diarrhoea, or a fever.
• You suspect a food allergy or intolerance.
• The crying continues for four months
• You feel overwhelmed or unsure of how to cope.
• Your doctor can rule out any medical issues and support you during this stage.

Caring for a colicky baby can be one of the most challenging parts of early parenthood, but remember, this is temporary, and you’re doing your best. Most babies outgrow colic by 3 to 4 months as their digestive and nervous systems develop. Understanding the possible reasons behind colic, such as tummy troubles, food sensitivities, or too much stimulation, can help you respond with more confidence. Small changes in feeding, soothing techniques, or even using Colicaid Drops (with your doctor’s guidance) can make a big difference. Take care of yourself, too. If you’re feeling tired, anxious, or overwhelmed, reach out to friends, family, or your healthcare provider for support. You don’t have to go through this alone. With patience, care, and time, the colicky days will pass and more peaceful days lie ahead for both you and your baby.