If your baby has ever cried inconsolably for hours at a time, especially during the evening, you may be dealing with colic—a common, yet deeply distressing experience for many new parents. According to the Mayo Clinic, colic is defined as “frequent, prolonged, and intense crying or fussiness in a healthy infant,” typically peaking around six weeks of age. Despite affecting up to 20% of infants, colic remains one of the most misunderstood newborn challenges parents face.
Here’s what every caregiver should know about this condition—and how you can make it through with compassion, strategy, and support.
What Is Colic—And Is It Treatable?
Pediatric nurse practitioner Dr. Maryanne Tranter describes colic not as a diagnosis but a symptom—like a fever—indicating that something else may be going on. By digging deeper, you may discover treatable root causes that can bring your baby (and yourself) much-needed relief.
Common underlying conditions that may cause colic-like symptoms include:
– Tongue and lip ties: These can cause poor latching, excess air intake while feeding, and digestive upset.
– Reflux, including silent reflux: Watch for arching of the back during or after feeds as a sign of discomfort.
– Food allergies and intolerances: Cow’s milk and soy proteins are common offenders, particularly in formula-fed infants.
If your baby is crying more than usual without an identifiable cause, it’s important to consult with your pediatrician to explore and rule out these possibilities.
What to Do When Colic Strikes
It’s easy to feel helpless during colicky episodes, but there are actionable steps you can take to soothe both your baby and yourself.
1. Address Possible Food Sensitivities
Holistic pediatrician Dr. Elisa Song advises that breastfeeding moms try eliminating the most inflammatory foods—dairy, gluten, soy, eggs, and corn—from their diet. Formula-fed infants might benefit from a hypoallergenic or partially hydrolyzed formula.
2. Establish a Soothing Environment
Creating a calm daily structure can help mitigate overstimulation, which often worsens colic. Try this 3 PM Rule in your home:
– Turn off the TV.
– Dim the lights.
– Avoid overhandling or noisy environments.
– Create a transition routine for other family members as they return home in the evening.
– Use rocking, white noise, and pacifiers for soothing.
3. Explore Natural Remedies and Holistic Therapies
Some natural approaches show promise in supporting colicky infants:
– Gripe water with ingredients like fennel, chamomile, and lemon balm may reduce symptoms.
– Probiotics, especially those containing Lactobacillus reuteri, are clinically shown to reduce infant crying duration.
– Homeopathic remedies like Boiron’s Colic Relief offer gentle, non-invasive support.
Dr. Song also recommends acupressure by gently massaging the CB12 acupuncture point (located between the sternum and belly button) using a calming essential oil such as lavender or chamomile.
4. Consider Pediatric Acupuncture
Practitioners like Robin Ray Green often use non-needle techniques to support infants dealing with colic, reflux, and sleep troubles. Visit RobinRayGreen.com for more on how laser acupuncture can be a safe and effective option for babies.
Real-Life Colic Recovery: The Story of Baby Jayden
When six-week-old Jayden began crying for long stretches, his overwhelmed parents feared they were doing something wrong. With support and gradual changes to their day—starting with a consistent morning routine—they began regaining control.
By tracking which soothing tools (white noise, pacifiers) worked and implementing the 3 PM Rule, Jayden’s cries decreased, and his day became more manageable. Though his colic didn’t vanish overnight, the reduction in fussiness was a relief for the entire family—and within a month, they were on the path toward gentle sleep training.
Final Thoughts: This Too Shall Pass
Colic can be deeply frustrating and emotionally taxing for families. Keep in mind that you’re not alone and that this phase is temporary. Whether it’s investigating hidden root causes or creating a soothing nighttime routine, every step you take brings both you and your baby closer to peace.
Always consult your pediatrician before starting new treatments or making major changes to feeding or care routines.
💬 Have you dealt with colic in your baby? Leave a comment below and share what helped you through it. Let’s support one another through this messy but beautiful parenting journey.