Colic and breastfeeding

If your otherwise healthy baby cries inconsolably for 3 or more hours a day, at least 3 days a week (and it's been happening for 3 weeks or more), it could be caused by colic.

Colic usually starts when a baby is a few weeks old. It's a common problem that should get better by the time they are around 3 or 4 months.

Symptoms of colic

Babies cry for many reasons, but look out for the following signs:

• intense crying lasting several hours
• clenched fists, arched back, knees being pulled up to tummy
• red or flushed face when crying
• they are inconsolable – nothing you do seems to make it better
• their tummy rumbles or they're very windy

There are other reasons your baby may be crying. It's a good idea to check if they:

• are hungry
• have a dirty or wet nappy
• have wind or constipation
• are too hot or too cold
• are bored or overstimulated

If your baby tends to cry during or after feeds, it's worth checking whether this could be reflux. Our guide to reflux in breastfed babies has information on the signs and symptoms.

If you're not sure what's wrong, it's best to speak to your health visitor, call NHS 111 or see a GP to be sure.

Other ways to soothe your baby

Warm bath and a massage

A warm bath can be soothing, followed by a gentle tummy massage with gentle, circular strokes on the tummy.

Hold them

During bouts of crying, hold your baby to your chest so they can feel and hear your heartbeat.

Rock your baby

Sometimes the swaying motion of rocking your baby in your arms can help.

Change of scenery

A change of environment can sometimes be enough to calm your baby – and yourself. Try moving to a different room or going outside for some fresh air.

Create a calming atmosphere

Babies can become overstimulated with lots of noise and activity around them.

Try to quieten your surroundings – switch the TV off, dim the lights and try to take some deep breaths yourself.

Find support

If you can, try to talk to other new mums. Talking about what you are going through with someone else can really help.

If you feel calmer, it will be easier to soothe your baby.

What causes colic?

There are no known reasons why some babies get colic – some doctors think it's a type of stomach cramp.

But it may happen because babies find it harder to digest food when they are really young.

Constant crying could also be due to food allergies, such as cow's milk allergy.

If you think this is the case, talk to your GP before making any changes to your baby's diet.

Help and support

As a parent of a colicky baby, it can be exhausting and extremely upsetting – but it will stop.

It's also important to remember that you need to be looked after too. If possible, ask family and friends for their support so you can take regular rest breaks.

If you are finding it difficult to cope, there is support available:

• Cry-sis offer support and advice: call Cry-sis on 0800 448 0737 (9am to 10pm, 7 days a week)
• the NCT support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby: call NCT on 0300 330 0700
• have a look at the NHS website for advice on soothing a crying baby
• watch this NCT video on coping with crying