Key Takeaways
- Colic affects about 1 in 5 babies and is not caused by anything you did wrong
- It typically starts around 2–3 weeks and peaks at 6 weeks
- Most babies outgrow colic by 3–4 months
- The 5 S's (swaddle, side/stomach, shush, swing, suck) are the most effective soothing technique
If your baby cries for hours and nothing seems to help, you may be dealing with colic. It's exhausting, it's stressful, and it's temporary. Here's what you need to know.
What Is Colic?
Colic is defined by the "Rule of 3s":
See also: baby-eczema-rash-guide and How to Swaddle a Baby: Step-by-Step Guide & When to Stop.
- Crying for more than 3 hours per day
- For more than 3 days per week
- For more than 3 weeks
Colicky crying is different from normal crying — it's intense, high-pitched, and seems to happen for no reason, often in the late afternoon or evening.
What Causes Colic?
The honest answer: we don't fully know. Possible contributing factors include:
- Immature digestive system — gas and discomfort as the gut develops
- Overstimulation — baby's nervous system is overwhelmed by the end of the day
- Food sensitivities — dairy protein in breast milk or formula intolerance (less common than people think)
- Acid reflux — in some cases, but not the majority
It's not your fault
Colic is not caused by bad parenting, something you ate, or anything you did wrong. It's a developmental phase that some babies go through.
Soothing Techniques That Work
The 5 S's (Dr. Harvey Karp)
The most evidence-backed soothing method for colicky babies:
- Swaddle — snug wrapping mimics the womb and reduces startle reflex
- Side/Stomach position — hold baby on their side or stomach (for soothing only — always sleep on back)
- Shush — loud "shhhh" near baby's ear, or white noise machine
- Swing — gentle rhythmic motion (rocking, car ride, baby swing)
- Suck — pacifier or finger to suck on
The key is doing all 5 together, not just one at a time.
Other techniques
- Warm bath — can break the crying cycle
- Bicycle legs — gently cycling baby's legs to relieve gas
- Tummy massage — gentle clockwise circles on the belly
- Change of scenery — step outside, go for a walk or drive
- Skin-to-skin contact — calming for both baby and parent
When Does Colic End?
| Timeline | What Happens |
|---|---|
| 2–3 weeks | Colic typically begins |
| 6 weeks | Peak crying — this is usually the worst week |
| 8–12 weeks | Gradual improvement begins |
| 3–4 months | Most babies have outgrown colic |
It does end
Colic feels endless when you're in it, but it is temporary. The vast majority of babies are completely over it by 4 months. You will get through this.
When to See Your Doctor
While colic itself is harmless, call your pediatrician if:
- Baby has a fever
- Baby is vomiting forcefully (not just spit-up)
- Baby has bloody or unusual stools
- Baby is not gaining weight
- Baby is not eating well
- Crying suddenly changes in character or intensity
- You're worried something else is wrong — trust your instincts
Taking Care of Yourself
This is not optional — it's essential. Colic is one of the leading triggers for parental burnout and postpartum depression.
- Take turns — if you have a partner, alternate who handles the crying
- It's okay to put baby down — if you're overwhelmed, place baby safely in the crib and step away for 5 minutes. A crying baby in a safe crib is okay
- Accept help — let family and friends take over so you can rest
- Talk to someone — your partner, a friend, your doctor. Don't suffer in silence
- Remember: this is temporary — it will end, and it's not your fault
You're doing a great job
If you're reading this article at 2am with a screaming baby, know this: the fact that you're looking for answers means you're a good parent. Hang in there.
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