It was a warm Sunday afternoon, and I had just arrived at a neighbourhood barbecue. The scent of grilled vegetables and chatter of families filled the air as children ran around in the yard. It was one of those rare weekends when I wasn’t in the clinic, and I was looking forward to catching up with friends.
As I helped myself to a plate of food, I noticed Jessica, a new mom in the neighborhood, sitting quietly at a picnic table with her three-week-old baby, Leo. She looked exhausted, her shoulders slumped as she gently rocked the stroller.
I walked over, balancing my plate, and said, “Hi, Jessica! How’s it going?”
She gave me a tired smile. “Oh, hi, Dr. Priya. Sorry, I’m not great company today. Leo has been crying for hours every evening this week, and I just don’t know what to do. I’m starting to think something’s really wrong.”
I set my plate down and pulled up a chair next to her. “Tell me more about what’s been happening,” I said, leaning in to listen.
Jessica sighed, running her fingers through her hair. “It starts like clockwork every evening. He cries and cries, and nothing I do seems to calm him. He pulls his legs up to his chest, like he’s in pain. I’ve tried feeding him, changing him, rocking him—everything. I’m so frustrated, and honestly, I feel like I’m failing as a mom.”
I placed a reassuring hand on her arm. “Jessica, you’re not failing. What you’re describing sounds like infant colic. It’s a common phase for many babies, and it’s not your fault. Let’s talk about what’s going on.”
What is Infant Colic?
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“Colic,” I began, “is when an otherwise healthy baby has episodes of prolonged crying or fussiness for no obvious reason. It’s most common in babies between two and sixteen weeks old and usually happens in the late afternoon or evening.”
Jessica adjusted Leo’s blanket and said, “But it’s more than just crying—he looks like he’s in pain. He pulls his legs up and clenches his fists. It’s heartbreaking to watch.”
“That’s exactly how it looks,” I said. “Many parents describe it as ‘gut ache’ because babies with colic often act as if their tummy is hurting. But the good news is that it’s not dangerous, and most babies outgrow it by three or four months.”
What Are the Typical Features of Colic?
Jessica looked relieved but still curious. “How do I know for sure it’s colic and not something more serious?”
I explained, “Colic follows a predictable pattern. Here’s what to look for:”
- Age: It usually starts around 2 weeks of age and peaks around 6–8 weeks.
- Crying episodes: Babies cry for at least 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week.
- Time of day: The crying often happens in the late afternoon or early evening.
- Physical signs: Babies may pull their legs up, clench their fists, or arch their back.
- Otherwise healthy: Despite all the crying, colicky babies are usually healthy, eating well, and gaining weight.
Jessica nodded. “That’s exactly what’s happening with Leo. It’s like a switch flips every evening, and he just cries non-stop.”
The Myths of Infant Colic
“I keep wondering if it’s something I’m doing wrong,” Jessica admitted. “Am I feeding him too much? Or maybe it’s something I’m eating?”
I smiled gently. “Those are common worries, but let me clear up a few myths about colic:”
- It’s not caused by feeding choices: Colic happens to both breastfed and formula-fed babies.
- It’s not because of your diet: While some mothers find avoiding certain foods helpful, there’s no definitive link between colic and what you eat.
- It’s not your fault: Colic isn’t caused by anything you’re doing or not doing as a parent.
Jessica sighed in relief. “I’ve been blaming myself this whole time. It’s good to know I’m not causing it.”
Practical Advice for Managing Colic
Jessica adjusted Leo in her arms and asked, “So, what can I do to help him? Nothing I’ve tried seems to work.”
“Colic can be tough,” I said. “But there are several strategies you can try. It’s all about finding what works for Leo.”
1. Create a Calm Environment
- Dim the lights and play soft, soothing music.
- Speak softly and avoid sudden movements or loud noises.
- Keep feeding times quiet and relaxed.
2. Adjust Feeding Practices
- Make sure Leo isn’t hungry or overfed, as both can worsen colic.
- If you’re breastfeeding, try expressing some foremilk before latching him to reduce gas.
- If you’re using formula, consider a lactose-free option if you suspect sensitivity.
3. Provide Physical Comfort
- Hold Leo close and walk around with him in a baby carrier.
- Offer a pacifier or dummy for comfort.
- Give him tummy time during the day to help release trapped gas.
4. Take Breaks for Yourself
- If nothing works, it’s okay to let Leo cry for 10–15 minutes while you take a breather.
- Ask for help from your partner or a family member so you can rest—it’s essential for your well-being.
What About Mom’s Diet?
Jessica hesitated. “Do you think I should cut out dairy or certain foods?”
“It’s worth trying,” I said. “Some moms find that avoiding foods like cow’s milk, eggs, or spicy dishes helps. But it’s not guaranteed, and colic usually resolves on its own even without dietary changes.”
Treatment for Infant Colic
As Leo started to settle in Jessica’s arms, I explained, “There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for colic, but here’s what you can try:”
1. Soothing Techniques
- Use gentle rocking, white noise, or soft music to calm Leo.
- Avoid quick or rough handling that might startle him.
2. Medications
- “Drugs aren’t usually necessary,” I said. “But in severe cases, Infacol Wind Drops or similar products can help reduce gas and ease discomfort.”
A Parent’s Journey: Reassurance and Support
Jessica smiled faintly. “I feel so much better just talking to you. I thought I was failing as a mom, but now I see it’s just a phase.”
“You’re doing an amazing job, Jessica,” I said. “Colic is exhausting, but it’s temporary. Leo will outgrow this, and you’ll get through it together.”
Key Takeaways About Infant Colic
Before we parted ways, I summarized everything for Jessica:
- Colic is common in babies between 2 and 16 weeks of age.
- It’s not caused by parenting mistakes or feeding choices—it’s no one’s fault.
- Gentle soothing techniques, feeding adjustments, and taking breaks can help.
- Most babies outgrow colic by 3–4 months of age.
FAQs About Infant Colic
1. How long does colic last?
Most cases improve by 12–16 weeks of age.
2. Can medications help?
Drugs like Infacol may provide relief for gas, but they’re not a cure.
3. Is colic dangerous?
No, colic is harmless and doesn’t affect a baby’s long-term health.
As I walked back to the barbecue, I felt grateful for the chance to reassure Jessica. Parenthood can feel isolating at times, but with the right knowledge and support, even the toughest phases—like colic—can become manageable.