Baby Colic: Causes, Signs, and Gentle Ways to Soothe It

Few things are harder for new parents than a baby who cries for hours and can't be comforted. If this sounds familiar, your little one may be experiencing colic, a common and, reassuringly, temporary phase.

What is baby colic?

Colic is generally described as intense, repeated crying in an otherwise healthy, well-fed baby. A common guideline is the "rule of threes": crying for more than three hours a day, at least three days a week, for three weeks or more. It often starts around two to three weeks of age and usually eases by three to four months.

What causes it?

There's no single confirmed cause, but several factors are thought to contribute:

• Swallowed air during feeding, which creates gas and discomfort.
• An immature digestive system still learning to process milk.
• Sensitivity to stimulation at the end of a busy day.
• Feeding too quickly or in a position that traps air.

Gentle ways to soothe a colicky baby

• Hold and rock your baby, or try skin-to-skin contact.
• Use gentle motion, such as a walk in the stroller or a baby carrier.
• Try white noise or soft, rhythmic sounds.
• Burp your baby regularly during and after feeds.
• Keep feeds calm, upright and unhurried.

The role of anti-colic feeding

Because swallowed air is a major trigger, the way your baby feeds matters. An anti-colic bottle is designed to reduce the amount of air your baby takes in, which can help limit gas and discomfort. Feeding in a more upright position and choosing a slow-flow teat can also make a difference.

Our recommendation

The BabyCloudy™ Anti-Colic Straw Bottle uses an air-reducing system and a soft, newborn-friendly teat to make feeds calmer. Discover it in our Feeding & Baby Bottles collection.

Colic is common, but persistent or severe crying should always be checked by your pediatrician to rule out other causes.