Have you ever held a baby who just won’t stop crying, no matter what you do? It can leave you feeling frustrated, confused, and even a little helpless. That’s when many parents start wondering if it’s colic—and what that really means.
What Exactly Is Colic?
Colic is a term used to describe excessive crying in an otherwise healthy baby. Doctors often define it as crying for more than three hours a day, at least three days a week, for three weeks or more.
The important part? Colic isn’t a disease—it’s more of a behavior pattern. Babies with colic eat well, grow normally, and don’t usually have any medical issues. The main challenge is the crying itself.
Common Signs of Colic
Since all babies cry, it can be hard to tell if it’s colic. Here are some typical signs parents notice:
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Crying that happens at the same time each day (often evening).
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Intense, high-pitched wailing that feels impossible to soothe.
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A baby who clenches fists, curls legs, or arches back while crying.
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Episodes that seem to start and stop suddenly.
If these sound familiar, chances are your little one may be experiencing colic.
Why Does Colic Happen?
Here’s the tricky part—no one knows the exact cause of colic. But researchers have some theories:
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An immature digestive system may make babies extra gassy.
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Overstimulation from their new environment could overwhelm them.
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Some babies may have developing nervous systems that make it harder to self-soothe.
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Family history can sometimes play a role—if one parent had colic, the baby might, too.
Interesting fact: Colic usually starts around 2–3 weeks of age and tends to fade by 3–4 months.
How Parents Can Cope With Colic
While there’s no “cure” for colic, there are ways to help both baby and parent get through it:
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Try gentle rocking, swaddling, or white noise.
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Offer a pacifier—it helps some babies calm down.
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Burp frequently during feedings to reduce gas buildup.
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Take shifts with your partner or ask for help so you can rest.
Fun fact: Some babies respond positively to car rides or stroller walks—the motion seems to work wonders.
Myths About Colic
There are a lot of misconceptions out there. Let’s clear a few up:
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Colic is not the parent’s fault. It has nothing to do with bad parenting.
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Colic doesn’t mean something is wrong with the baby. Most colicky babies are healthy.
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It doesn’t last forever. Though it feels endless, it typically improves after a few months.
Personal Insight
When my niece had colic, I remember thinking nothing could soothe her—not lullabies, not rocking, not even her favorite blanket. It was exhausting for everyone. But once I understood that colic was temporary, I felt more patient. Sometimes, just knowing it’s a phase makes all the difference.
Moving Forward With Understanding
Colic can be stressful, but it’s reassuring to know that it’s common and temporary. Babies eventually outgrow it, and most families find relief within a few months.
Have you ever experienced colic with your child—or helped a loved one through it? I’d love to hear your tips and stories in the comments.