HiPP BabyClub

Colic

The NHS states that colic is ‘the name for excessive, frequent crying in a baby who appears to be otherwise healthy. It's a common problem that affects up to one in five babies.' Colic tends to begin when a baby is a few weeks old. It normally stops by four months of age, or by six months at the latest. Looking after a colicky baby can be very frustrating and distressing, but the problem will eventually pass and is usually nothing to worry about.

Much more information can be found on the NHS Choices website, including information on treating colic, but their summary of the main symptoms and tips for helping your baby are:

Signs and symptoms of colic include:

intense crying bouts
crying in the late afternoon or evening that lasts several hours
your baby's face being red and flushed when they cry
your baby clenching their fists, drawing their knees up to their tummy, or arching their back while crying

If your baby has colic, they may appear to be in distress. But the crying outbursts are not harmful, and your baby should continue to feed and gain weight normally.

Advice for parents

Caring for a baby with colic can be very difficult for parents, particularly first-time parents. It's important to remember that:

your baby's colic is not your fault – it doesn't mean your baby is unwell, you're doing something wrong, or your baby is rejecting you
your baby will get better eventually – colic normally stops before they're four to six months old
you should look after your own wellbeing – if possible, ask friends and family for support as it's important to take regular breaks and get some rest

Support groups, such asCry-sis, can also offer help and advice if you need it. You can contact the Cry-sis helpline for advice on 0845 122 8669 (9am-10pm, seven days a week).

Tips for helping your baby

There's no method that works for all babies with colic, but there are a number of techniques that may help. These include:

holding your baby during a crying episode
preventing your baby swallowing air by sitting or holding them upright during feeding
burping your baby after feeds
gently rocking your baby over your shoulder
bathing your baby in a warm bath
gently massaging your baby's tummy

Some babies may also benefit from changes to their diet, such as adding drops to breast or bottle milk that aid digestion and release any bubbles of trapped air in your baby's digestive system.

Speak to a GP or pharmacist for advice before trying these.

What causes colic?

The cause or causes of colic are unknown, but a number of theories have been suggested. These include indigestion, trapped wind, or a temporary gut sensitivity to certain proteins and sugars found in breast and formula milk.

It has also been suggested colic may just be at the extreme end of normal crying in babies.

Colic occurs equally in boys and girls, and both in babies who are breastfed and those who are bottle-fed.