The crying starts every evening around the same time—intense, inconsolable screaming that nothing seems to soothe. Your baby's face turns red, their little fists clench, and they draw their knees up to their chest as if in pain. You've tried feeding, changing, swaddling, and rocking, but nothing works. If this describes your experience, you're likely dealing with colic, one of the most challenging yet common conditions affecting babies in their first few months of life.
The medical definition of Colic is crying that lasts for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for more than three weeks in an otherwise healthy baby. However, parents dealing with colic know it's much more than just crying—it's intense distress that affects the entire family.
When colic typically occurs, it usually begins between 2 and 4 weeks of age and peaks around 6 weeks. Most babies outgrow colic by 3-4 months, though for some families, symptoms may persist slightly longer. The crying episodes often follow a predictable pattern, frequently occurring in the late afternoon or evening hours.
How common is colic? Studies show that colic affects approximately 10-25% of all babies, making it one of the most common early childhood conditions. It occurs equally in boys and girls, and affects both breastfed and formula-fed babies.
The classic colic cry. Unlike other types of baby crying, colic crying is typically high-pitched, intense, and seems to indicate pain or distress. The cry often starts suddenly and can last for hours without apparent cause.
- Physical signs during colic episodes
- Clenched fists
- Arched back
- Legs drawn up toward the chest
- Rigid or tense abdominal muscles
- Red face from crying
- Gas passing during or after episodes
- Difficulty being comforted by usual soothing methods
Timing patterns: Colic episodes often occur at the same time each day, most commonly in the late afternoon or evening. This predictable timing can help differentiate colic from other causes of crying.
Between episodes, babies appear normal. One distinguishing feature of colic is that babies typically appear healthy and content between episodes. They eat well, gain weight normally, and meet developmental milestones appropriately.
The truth is, we don't know exactly. Despite decades of research, the exact cause of colic remains unclear. Most experts believe it results from a combination of factors rather than a single cause.
Digestive system immaturity. Many researchers believe colic relates to the immaturity of a baby's digestive system. Newborns' intestines are still learning to process milk efficiently, and this may lead to gas, cramping, and discomfort.
Overstimulation and sensory processing. Some babies may be more sensitive to environmental stimulation—lights, sounds, textures—and become overwhelmed by daily sensory input. By evening, this overstimulation may manifest as inconsolable crying.
Nervous system development. The newborn nervous system is still developing, and some babies may have difficulty self-regulating their responses to internal and external stimuli. This can result in periods of intense distress.
Gut microbiome differences. Recent research suggests babies with colic may have a different gut bacteria composition compared to non-colicky babies. This difference might affect digestion and comfort levels.
Maternal factors during pregnancy. Some studies suggest links between maternal stress, diet, or smoking during pregnancy and increased colic risk, though these connections aren't definitive.
It's not caused by "bad" parenting. Colic occurs in babies with loving, attentive parents just as often as in any other family. Nothing you did or didn't do caused your baby's colic.
It's not a sign of serious illness. While colic is distressing, it doesn't indicate underlying medical problems in most cases. Colicky babies typically grow and develop normally.
It's not permanent, although it feels endless when you're in the midst of it, colic is temporary. Most babies outgrow it by 3-4 months of age.
It's not reflux (though they can occur together). While some babies have both colic and gastroesophageal reflux, they're different conditions with different causes and treatments.
Differentiating colic from other causes of crying
Hunger cries. These typically start gradually and have a rhythmic pattern. Babies often make rooting motions or suck on their hands when hungry.
Tired cries are usually accompanied by yawning, rubbing eyes, or jerky movements. These cries often occur after periods of alertness.
Overstimulation cries may be similar to colic but typically respond to reducing stimulation—dimming lights, reducing noise, or moving to a quieter environment.
Illness-related crying is usually accompanied by other symptoms like fever, changes in eating or sleeping patterns, or unusual lethargy.
When to consult your healthcare provider
Rule out other medical conditions first. Before assuming excessive crying is colic, it's important to have your baby evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out other causes, such as:
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Urinary tract infections
- Hair wrapped around fingers or toes (hair tourniquet)
- Hernias
- Intussusception (rare but serious intestinal condition)
Seek immediate medical attention if your baby has:
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea or blood in stool
- Not gaining weight appropriately
- Changes in eating patterns
- Unusual lethargy between crying episodes
- Any symptoms that concern you as a parent
Gentle approaches to soothing colicky babies
The "5 S's" method Dr. Harvey Karp popularized this approach:
- Swaddling: Tight wrapping can help babies feel secure
- Side/stomach positioning: Hold baby on their side or stomach (never for sleep)
- Shushing: Loud white noise or "shh" sounds
- Swinging: Gentle, rhythmic movement
- Sucking: Pacifiers or clean fingers for non-nutritive sucking
Environmental modifications
- Dim lights during fussy periods
- Reduce household noise and activity
- Try warm baths for some babies
- Fresh air and gentle outdoor movement
- Skin-to-skin contact with parents
Feeding considerations
- If breastfeeding, consider eliminating dairy, caffeine, or spicy foods from your diet
- Ensure proper latching to reduce air swallowing
- Try smaller, more frequent feedings
- Burp frequently during and after feeds
- Consider bottle nipple flow rate if formula feeding
The role of gentle digestive support
Traditional approaches to colic relief. For generations, parents have recognized that colic often seems related to digestive discomfort. Traditional remedies have focused on supporting comfortable digestion and providing gentle relief from gas and cramping.
Natural ingredients with historical use. Certain herbs have been used traditionally to support digestive comfort in babies:
- Fennel: Used for centuries to support comfortable digestion
- Dill: Traditional remedy for digestive upset and gas
- Ginger: Known for its gentle digestive support properties
The importance of gentle formulations. When choosing any remedy for colic relief, it's crucial to select products specifically formulated for babies' delicate systems. Look for formulations that are alcohol-free, free from artificial colours and flavours, and made with natural ingredients.
KOLIK Gripe Water: Canadian heritage colic relief. For over 165 years, Canadian families have trusted KOLIK Gripe Water for gentle relief from colic and digestive discomfort. Our time-tested formula combines traditional ingredients known for their digestive support properties:
Our Original Formula contains:
- Dill oil for gentle digestive comfort
- Ginger tincture for soothing relief
- Natural preservation methods trusted for generations
Our Alcohol-Free Formula features:
- Fennel oil for digestive support
- Sodium bicarbonate for gentle relief
- Modern preservation without alcohol
Both formulations deliver the same gentle effectiveness that Canadian families have relied on since 1856, so you can choose the option that best fits your family's preferences.
Caring for yourself while caring for a colicky baby
Colic affects the whole family. Living with a colicky baby is exhausting and emotionally draining. It's normal to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, or even angry at times. These feelings don't make you a bad parent—they make you human.
- Take breaks when possible
- Ask family or friends to help with baby care
- Take turns with your partner during evening fussy periods
- Don't be afraid to put your baby in a safe place (like their crib) and take a few minutes to collect yourself
- Join colic support groups (online or in-person) to connect with other parents
Protect your mental health
- Sleep when your baby sleeps, even during the day
- Eat nutritious meals to maintain your energy
- Accept that housework may slide temporarily
- Communicate openly with your partner about your feelings and needs
Know when to seek additional support. If you're feeling overwhelmed to the point where you're concerned about your baby's safety or your own mental health, reach out immediately to:
- Your healthcare provider
- Postpartum support organizations
- Mental health professionals
- Trusted family members or friends
The light at the end of the tunnel
Colic does end. While it may feel endless, colic is temporary. Most babies show significant improvement by 3-4 months of age. Some families notice gradual improvement, while others experience a sudden end to colic episodes.
Your baby will be fine. Research shows that babies who experienced colic develop normally and don't have long-term effects from their early crying periods. They're just as likely to be happy, healthy children as babies who never had colic.
You're doing a great job. Surviving colic requires tremendous patience, love, and resilience. The fact that you're reading this article shows how much you care about your baby's well-being. Trust that you're providing the love and care your baby needs, even when nothing seems to help.
Building your colic support toolkit
- Environmental tools
- White noise machine or app
- Comfortable rocking chair
- Baby swing or vibrating seat
- Soft blankets for swaddling
- Dim lighting options for evening hours
Feeding support
- Various bottle nipple sizes (if bottle feeding)
- High-quality breast pump (if breastfeeding and pumping)
- Burp cloths and bibs
- Feeding schedule tracker
Comfort measures
- Gentle, natural colic relief like KOLIK Gripe Water
- Infant massage oil for gentle tummy massage
- Warm compress for your own neck and shoulders
- Comfortable clothing for extended baby-holding sessions
When colic may actually be something else
Food allergies or intolerances. Some babies diagnosed with colic may actually be reacting to proteins in breast milk (from the mother's diet) or formula. Symptoms may include excessive gassiness, skin rashes, or changes in stool patterns.
Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD). Babies with reflux may cry intensely, especially after eating or when lying flat. They may also frequently spit up, arch their backs, or seem uncomfortable when lying down.
Lactose intolerance is Rare in newborns, but it is possible. Symptoms typically include diarrhea, excessive gas, and crying primarily after feedings.
Supporting your family through colic
Include siblings in age-appropriate ways. Explain to older children that the baby isn't crying because they're bad parents or bad big brothers/sisters. Give older children special quiet activities to do during colic episodes.
Maintain routines where possible. While colic may disrupt many aspects of family life, try to maintain some predictable routines, especially for older children.
Communicate with your partner. Discuss strategies, take turns providing care during difficult periods, and support each other emotionally through this challenging time.
Looking ahead: life after colic
Recovery happens gradually. Most families notice that colic episodes become shorter, less intense, or less frequent before they disappear entirely. Celebrate these small improvements—they're signs that your baby is maturing and developing better self-regulation skills.
Your confidence as a parent will grow. Surviving colic teaches you to trust your instincts, develop patience, and find creative solutions to challenges. These skills serve you well throughout parenthood.
The bond with your baby remains strong Despite the difficult early months, babies who experienced colic form normal, healthy attachments with their parents. Your love and care during this challenging time builds a strong foundation for your relationship.
Trust in gentle, proven relief
When you're facing the challenges of colic, having a trusted remedy can provide both physical relief for your baby and emotional support for your family. KOLIK Gripe Water represents over 165 years of Canadian families finding gentle relief during the most challenging early months of parenthood.
Our commitment to gentle, effective care means you can use KOLIK with confidence, knowing it's specifically formulated for babies' delicate systems and has been used successfully for generations. Whether you choose our traditional original formula or our modern alcohol-free version, you're choosing a remedy trusted by Canadian families since 1856.
Remember: You're not alone in this journey. Thousands of Canadian families have walked this path before you, finding comfort in gentle remedies, supportive communities, and the knowledge that colic is temporary while the love for your baby is eternal.
KOLIK Gripe Water: Gentle relief for colic, trusted by Canadian families for over 165 years. Available at pharmacies across Canada.
