Colic: Understanding It and How to Soothe Your Fussy Baby
Few things are more stressful for new parents than dealing with a baby who cries for hours, seemingly without reason. If your baby has periods of intense fussiness and crying, especially in the late afternoons or evenings, they may experience colic. While colic is common, it's overwhelming to navigate. In this post, we’ll explain what colic is, what might cause it, and share some tried-and-true tips to help soothe your fussy baby during these challenging times.
1. What Is Colic?
• Defining Colic: Colic is defined as crying or fussiness that lasts for over three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks or longer in an otherwise healthy baby. It typically starts around 2-3 weeks of age and often peaks at 6 weeks, tapering off by 3-4 months.
• How It Presents: Babies with colic may clench their fists, arch their backs, or pull their legs up to their tummies as they cry. They are often difficult to console during these episodes, no matter what soothing techniques you try.
2. What Causes Colic?
• The Mystery of Colic: Despite years of research, the exact cause of colic remains unknown. Some theories propose that digestive issues, gas, overstimulation, or an immature nervous system may cause colic.
Common Theories:
• Digestive Discomfort: Some experts believe that colic may be related to gas, food sensitivities, or an underdeveloped digestive system.
• Overstimulation: Babies are still learning to process the world around them, and too much stimulation throughout the day can lead to overwhelming crying spells in the evening.
• Immature Nervous System: The developing nervous systems of newborns hinder self-soothing as they adjust to life outside the womb.
3. How to Soothe a Baby with Colic
• Swaddling: Wrapping your baby snugly in a swaddle can help them feel secure and may reduce crying. Swaddling mimics the feeling of being in the womb and can be especially effective during colic episodes.
• Rocking or Motion: Gently rocking your baby or using a baby swing can help calm them. Some parents find that walking or bouncing their baby in their arms also works. Motion helps to soothe a baby’s underdeveloped nervous system and can ease fussiness.
• White Noise: White noise, which mimics the constant sounds they heard in the womb, may comfort colicky babies. Use a white noise machine, fan, or soft music to create a calming environment.
• Babywearing: Carrying your baby in a wrap or carrier throughout the day may help reduce crying by keeping them close to your body, which can be very soothing. It also allows you to have your hands free while comforting your baby.
• Warm Bath: A warm bath can help relax your baby’s muscles and calm their senses. Try giving your baby a bath during their fussy period to see if it helps soothe them.
4. Feeding Adjustments
• Check for Overfeeding or Underfeeding: Sometimes, feeding issues can contribute to colic-like symptoms. Make sure your baby is getting enough milk without overfeeding, as either extreme can cause discomfort.
• Burping Frequently: Gas bubbles can make colic worse, so it’s important to burp your baby frequently during and after feedings. Try different burping positions, such as holding your baby upright on your shoulder or sitting them on your lap.
• Consider Dietary Changes: If you’re breastfeeding, your baby may be sensitive to something in your diet. Some moms find that eliminating dairy, caffeine, or spicy foods helps reduce colic symptoms. If you’re formula-feeding, talk to your pediatrician about switching to a different formula.
5. The 5 S’s Method by Dr. Harvey Karp
• Swaddle: Wrap your baby snugly in a swaddle to help them feel secure.
• Side or Stomach Position: Hold your baby on their side or stomach (only for soothing, not for sleeping) to help ease discomfort.
• Shushing: Use a loud “shushing” sound near your baby’s ear to mimic the sounds of the womb.
• Swinging: Gentle swinging or rocking can calm your baby’s nervous system.
• Sucking: Offer a pacifier or your breast to help soothe your baby through sucking, which can be very calming for them.
6. When to Seek Help?
• Trust Your Instincts: Colic can be extremely frustrating and emotionally exhausting, but it’s important to stay in tune with your baby’s overall health. If you’re concerned that something more serious is going on—such as excessive vomiting, diarrhea, or poor weight gain—contact your pediatrician for guidance.
• Reassurance from Your Pediatrician: Your pediatrician can check to ensure that your baby is healthy and help rule out other potential causes for excessive crying. Sometimes just having reassurance that everything is okay can provide relief.
7. Coping as Parents
• Take Breaks: Colic can be overwhelming, and it’s okay to step away for a few minutes to take a breather if you need it. Ask your partner, a family member, or a friend to take over for a while so you can recharge.
• Support Each Other: If you have a partner, lean on each other for support during colic episodes. Take turns soothing the baby and try to get some rest when the other parent is on duty.
• Reach Out for Support: If you’re feeling emotionally drained, reach out to a friend, family member, or support group for parents. Sometimes just talking about the stress can help lighten the load.