If you have a baby, or are expecting one, you’ve probably heard about infant colic. But what exactly is it? Why does it happen? And most importantly, how can you help your baby feel better during a flare-up? Today were breaking it all dow.
What Is Infant Colic?
While there are a few definitions, the most widely accepted describes infant colic as intense, inconsolable crying with no clear cause. A baby with colic typically cries:
-
For more than three hours a day
-
At least three days a week
-
For three weeks or longer
Colic usually appears suddenly during the few months, in otherwise healthy and well-fed babies. The good news? It’s a benign and temporary condition that typically resolves on its own by 4 to 6 months of age.
How to Recognize Infant Colic
Many parents worry about telling the difference between normal crying and a colic episode, but colic has some very recognizable signs. During an episode, you may notice that your baby:
-
Pulls their legs up toward their abdomen
-
Has a tight or bloated belly
-
Appears flushed or red in the face
-
Clenches their fists
-
Cries intensely and is difficult to soothe
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone and you’re not doing anything wrong.
Possible Causes of Infant Colic
There is no single, definitive cause of infant colic. In only about 5% of cases is a clear medical cause identified. Most of the time, colic is diagnosed by ruling out other common reasons for discomfort, such as hunger, a dirty diaper, temperature discomfort, or illness.
Many experts believe colic may be linked to an immature digestive system, which helps explain why it improves naturally with age.
How to Soothe a Baby With Colic
While colic can’t always be prevented, there are several gentle strategies that may help comfort your baby during an episode.
Infant Massage
Massage can be incredibly soothing for babies with colic. If possible, visiting a specialized infant physiotherapy center can provide immediate relief and teach you safe, effective techniques to use at home.
Using a gentle product like Suavinex Moisturizing Body Milk helps your hands glide smoothly over your baby’s skin, making the experience more calming for both of you.
Babywearing
The benefits of babywearing go beyond convenience. Being close to a caregiver helps babies feel secure and calm, while upright positioning and gentle movement may also help ease digestive discomfort associated with colic.
Feeding Considerations
Colic affects both breastfed and formula-fed babies equally, and there’s no strong evidence linking colic to one feeding method over another. If you suspect a food intolerance or are considering changing formula, always consult your pediatrician first.
Some studies suggest that probiotics may help, but this should also be discussed with your healthcare provider before introducing them.
Once your baby outgrows infant colic, they may still experience gas-related discomfort. For formula-fed babies, the Suavinex ZerØ.ZerØ™ Anti-Colic Bottle can be a helpful ally. Its innovative anti-colic bag helps minimize air intake, supporting more comfortable feeds.
Have you experienced infant colic with your baby? What strategies worked best for your family?
References:
Infant colic , Wikipedia.
Infant colic , Lucía / pediatrician