Understanding Infantile Colic: A Guide for Parents
- Dr Steven Kinnear
- Jun 1
- 3 min read
Few things are more distressing for a new parent than a baby who cries for hours and can’t be soothed. One of the most common causes of this prolonged crying is colic — a frustrating yet temporary condition that affects up to 1 in 5 infants.
What is Infantile Colic?
Infantile Colic is defined as repeated bouts of excessive crying in a baby who is otherwise healthy. The classic medical definition of colic is crying for more than three hours a day, at least three days a week, for at least three weeks. It typically begins in the first few weeks of life and often resolves on its own by the age of 3 to 4 months.
What Does Colic Look Like?
Symptoms can vary, but many parents notice:
Intense crying episodes, often in the late afternoon or evening
The crying can begin in the late afternoon or evening and gradually progress to earlier in the day
A baby who appears uncomfortable, pulls their legs up, or clenches their fists
A red or purple colouration of the face during crying spells
A baby who is perfectly well between these episodes
Importantly, colicky babies are otherwise well — they feed, gain weight, and do not show signs of illness.
What Causes Colic?
The cause remains unclear. It affects both breastfed and bottle-fed babies, and there is no strong evidence to support theories involving trapped wind, lactose intolerance, or immature digestive systems. Maternal smoking has been associated with an increased risk of colic, but for most families, the exact reason is never fully understood.
What Can Help?
There’s no guaranteed cure, but here are a few things that many parents find helpful:
Rule out other causes: Check for hunger, thirst, a wet or dirty nappy, or if the baby is too warm or cold.
Soothing techniques: Try holding or cuddling, winding after feeds, gentle rocking in a pram or motion in a car, or using “white noise” like a vacuum cleaner, hairdryer, washing machine, or white noise app on your phone.
Warm baths and baby massage: Some babies find these calming. Your health visitor may be able to show you some simple massage techniques.
Take turns and take breaks: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to step away for a few minutes. Place your baby safely in their cot and give yourself time to reset. Ask others to help so you can spend some time outside in the fresh air while someone else looks after your baby for a while.
What About Colic Remedies?
Despite the many products marketed for colic — including drops, gripe water, or comfort formulas — the evidence supporting their effectiveness is weak. Products like Infacol, Dentinox, and Colief are available over the counter, but should only be tried if you’ve discussed it with a healthcare professional.
When to Seek Advice
Speak to your GP or health visitor if your baby:
Has a high temperature
Is vomiting, has diarrhoea, or is constipated
Isn't feeding well or gaining weight
Has reflux – this is more than the usual posseting (boking) all babies do. If there is a strong smell of acid to your baby’s boke, or there is blood in the boke, you need to speak to your doctor
Seems unwell in any other way
Never hesitate to ask for help — even if it's just for reassurance. Giving reassurance is one of the most important and worthwhile things I do for my patients!
Supporting You, the Parent
Colic is exhausting for parents! If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. Ask for support. Whether it's from your partner, family, friends, or healthcare team, it’s okay to ask for help and take breaks. And remember: never shake a baby, no matter how frustrated you feel. If you're struggling, talk to your GP or health visitor. Help is available.
A Final Reassurance
Colic is tough, but temporary. It usually peaks around 6 weeks and settles by 3 to 4 months. You are not doing anything wrong, and your baby is not rejecting you. If you need support, please ask for help.
Additional useful resources:
