What Is Colic in Babies?
Colic: Excessive crying in babies without direct cause.
Colic is a recognizable pattern of excessive crying in an otherwise healthy infant. Colicky babies may seem inconsolable for hours without an obvious trigger like hunger or discomfort. Clinicians often apply the “rule of threes”: crying more than three hours per day, for more than three days per week, sustained for at least three weeks (Mayo Clinic, 2023).
Although colic is not a medical disease, it describes a phase marked by intense crying that places emotional strain on caregivers.
Is Colic Dangerous for Your Baby?
Colic itself is not inherently harmful. However, there are significant indirect consequences to constant baby crying that won't stop:
The persistent, intense crying can disrupt sleep, family routines, and contribute to parental stress or postpartum depression (Mayo Clinic, 2023).
In frustration or exhaustion, caregivers may handle infants improperly, which risks shaken baby syndrome. This underscores the importance of safe calming techniques and timely support.
While colic is not linked to long-term developmental disorders, the stress it causes can affect relationships and caregiver well-being.
How to Best Manage a Colicky Baby and Stop Excessive Crying
Because colic lacks a single cause, approaches focus on relief and support, not cures. Some evidence-backed strategies include:
Motion and soothing rhythm (rocking, gentle sway, stroller or car rides)
Swaddling and soft touch, applying gentle pressure to the abdomen
White noise or steady ambient sound
Frequent burping and feeding in an upright position
Adjusting feeding: slower feedings, smaller bottle openings, maternal elimination diets (if breastfeeding)
Trial of hypoallergenic or hydrolyzed formula (for formula-fed infants)
Gentle tummy massage or bicycle leg movements (Mayo Clinic, 2023)
These techniques do not guarantee elimination of colic, but many caregivers report improvement over time.
Products That Can Help Soothe and Manage Colicky Babies
Below are supportive tools often used in tandem with caregiver strategies:
BaboCush Newborn Comfort Cushion — supports position and alignment during feeding, which may ease gas and pressure.
Anti-colic baby bottles from lactation collections — bottles with venting systems designed to reduce swallowed air.
Colic Calm — an herbal oral supplement often used to help relieve gas and discomfort.
These are adjunctive tools; always observe safety guidelines and consult a pediatric provider before introducing new products.
Focusing on Caregiver Health
Managing a baby with colic can take a heavy emotional toll. It’s vital to prioritize your own rest, seek support, and remember: this phase often resolves with time. A more rested caregiver is better equipped to respond with patience and consistency.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying any product or treatment. To connect with parenting coaches, feel free to visit any parenting and general sleep coaches that are readily available on the MissPoppins platform.