What Is Colic and How Do I Know If My Baby Has It?
If your baby cries for hours on end with no clear reason - and nothing seems to soothe them - you’ve probably asked yourself, what is colic and how do I know if my baby has it? You’re not alone. Colic is one of the most confusing and emotionally exhausting parts of early parenthood. But understanding it can bring clarity, relief, and the confidence to cope.
In this guide, we’ll break down what colic is, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to comfort your little one during these tough moments.
What Is Colic?
Colic is defined as frequent, intense, and unexplained crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It typically starts around 2 to 3 weeks of age and peaks at about 6 weeks, usually improving by 3 to 4 months. The exact cause of colic is still unknown, but experts believe it could be linked to:
- Immature digestion or gas buildup
- Overstimulation or difficulty self-soothing
- Food sensitivities or sensitivities to milk proteins
- Imbalance in the gut microbiome
Regardless of the cause, colic is tough. But the good news is that it’s temporary - and it doesn’t mean anything is wrong with your baby or your parenting.
How Do I Know If My Baby Has Colic?
If you’re wondering what is colic and how do I know if my baby has it, here are the most common signs to look for:
1. Intense Crying at the Same Time Each Day
Babies with colic often cry for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for at least 3 weeks in a row - usually in the late afternoon or evening. The crying tends to be intense, high-pitched, and difficult to calm.
2. Clenched Fists, Arched Back, and Tense Body
During a colic episode, your baby may show physical signs of discomfort - like stiff legs, arched back, and clenched fists. These reactions may suggest gas pain or difficulty releasing tension.
3. Red Face and Tight Abdomen
Many colicky babies turn red in the face while crying and may have a hard, bloated belly due to swallowing air or digestive discomfort.
4. No Obvious Cause for Crying
If your baby is fed, changed, rested, and still crying excessively - and nothing seems to help - it could be colic. That’s why parents often ask, what is colic and how do I know if my baby has it? It’s not just about the crying - it’s about the lack of clear explanation.
What Can I Do to Help My Colicky Baby?
While colic can’t always be stopped, there are ways to soothe and support your baby through it:
- Use a soothing pacifier: Sucking can help calm the nervous system. Try a BIBS pacifier in a shape your baby responds well to.
- Swaddle and rock: Gentle swaddling and rhythmic movement can mimic the womb and ease overstimulation.
- Try white noise: A shushing sound or white noise machine may help calm your baby’s senses.
- Burp frequently: Burping during and after feeds can reduce trapped gas and discomfort.
- Use a warm bath or tummy massage: Gentle, clockwise massage or a warm soak may ease belly tension.
Sometimes, simply holding your baby skin-to-skin in a dark room with minimal stimulation can help reset their nervous system.
Supporting Yourself Through Colic
Colic isn’t just hard on babies - it’s emotionally exhausting for parents too. If you’re in the thick of it, know this: you are doing an amazing job. Colic is not caused by anything you did or didn’t do.
Lean on your partner, friends, or family. Take breaks when needed. Use tools like pacifier clips and cases to stay organized during those stressful moments.
Some parents also explore changes in feeding routines. If bottle-feeding, consider switching to a BIBS baby bottle. Our bottles are designed with an anti-colic valve that helps reduce air intake during feeding, supporting digestion and easing common colic symptoms like gas and bloating.
When to Call Your Pediatrician
If your baby’s crying seems excessive, or you’re unsure if something more serious is going on, always check in with your healthcare provider. They can rule out other causes and confirm if your baby’s symptoms align with colic.
Call your pediatrician if your baby:
- Isn’t feeding or gaining weight normally
- Has a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Seems excessively sleepy or unusually stiff
When in doubt, trust your gut. You know your baby best.
So if you’re wondering, what is colic and how do I know if my baby has it - the answer often comes down to timing, behavior, and your own intuition. Colic is tough, but it’s temporary. You and your baby will get through it - together.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only. Activities should always be adapted to suit your child’s age, abilities, and individual needs. Ensure proper supervision and a safe environment at all times. If you have concerns about your child’s motor development or physical abilities, please consult a pediatrician or qualified healthcare professional. BIBS products should always be used according to the provided safety instructions.
