Colic and Crying

Healthy babies cry — it's how they express their needs and communicate with the people around them. Most of the time you respond with what your baby needs: food, help settling to sleep, a nappy change, or just a cuddle. But there are times when even the most caring parent can't soothe a baby's cries. When a baby cries long and hard, without a break, even though he's been fed, changed and cuddled, he's sometimes described as "colicky." For a long time colic was thought of as a condition some babies have and others don't — newer understanding suggests what used to be called colic is actually a normal part of a baby's development, and all babies go through a period early in life when they cry more than at any other time.

This "peak" period is usually somewhere between 3 and 8 weeks, and it's normal, has no lasting effect on your baby, and won't last forever — it can end as quickly as it started, or gradually decrease, and is usually over by 3 to 4 months of age.

Why do some babies cry more than others?

Some experts believe babies who cry more have a more sensitive temperament and more trouble self-soothing and settling into their natural body rhythms while very young. It generally hasn't been shown that there's anything wrong with the bowels of babies who cry a lot, and there's no strong evidence the crying is caused by gas, wind or food allergies — in fact, crying itself causes babies to swallow air, which they burp up or pass as wind.

What can you do to help soothe a crying baby?

Each baby is unique, so what works varies. Some suggestions:

• Check whether your baby needs something specific — a nappy change, a feed, relief from being too hot or cold, attention, or has a fever.
• Hold your baby — it will not spoil him, though some babies dislike being passed from person to person.
• Wrap or swaddle your baby in a soft blanket.
• Turn off the lights and keep surroundings quiet — too much stimulation can trigger or worsen crying.
• Soft music, white noise or a gentle shushing sound can soothe some babies.
• Try motion — walking with baby in a sling or stroller, rocking or swaying, or a car ride.
• Sucking helps some babies calm and relax — breastfeed or offer a pacifier.
• Give your baby a warm bath.

Talk to your doctor before using OTC or natural remedies for colic — there's still very little scientific evidence supporting any medicine or probiotic for it. Whatever you do, it should be gentle and soothing — never shake your baby. If you're frustrated despite your best efforts, put her in a safe place, like her crib, and take a moment to calm yourself. There are times when nothing works, even though you've tried everything — that doesn't mean you're a bad parent.

Is my baby crying because of something he ate — or something I ate?

Colic happens in both breastfed and bottle-fed babies. Changing how you feed your baby — switching from breastfeeding to formula, or between formulas — probably won't help. A true allergy to cow's milk is a rare condition; if you suspect it, speak to your doctor about your options.

Call your doctor if

• Your baby isn't behaving as usual and isn't eating or sleeping.
• Your baby has a fever.
• Your baby is vomiting, has diarrhoea or bloody stools.
• Your baby could be hurt from a fall or injury.
• Your baby cries excessively for more than 3 months.
• You're afraid you might hurt your baby.

Where can you go for help?

The early days of caring for a new baby can be hard, especially with disrupted sleep and round-the-clock needs. A baby's constant crying can be stressful, but it is not your fault, and it will get better. Arrange for regular child care relief so you can rest, find someone you trust to look after the baby for short periods, and accept help when it's offered. Try to eat and sleep well where you can, take breaks for exercise, reading or a visit with a friend, and if you notice negative thoughts, that's okay as long as you don't act on them — if you feel depressed, resentful or angry, talk to someone you trust and get help. Many community resources support new parents; if you're not sure where to go, ask your paediatrician, family physician or public health nurse.