Infant Colic: Causes, Natural Remedies, and When to See a Doctor

What is infant colic?

Infant colic is characterized by intense, unexplained, and repetitive crying episodes in an otherwise healthy baby. According to the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS), colic is defined as a baby crying for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks. It's exhausting for parents, but rest assured: colic is temporary and usually disappears around 3-4 months of age.

What causes colic?

The exact causes of colic are still poorly understood by medicine. Several hypotheses have been put forward:

• Immature digestive system: the baby's intestine is still developing
• Gas and bloating: accumulation of air in the abdomen
• Hypersensitivity: some babies are more sensitive to stimulation
• Immature gut flora: the baby's microbiome is still developing
• Cow's milk protein intolerance: possible in some breastfed or bottle-fed babies

Natural remedies to relieve colic

1. Babywearing

Carrying your baby close to you in a wrap or ergonomic baby carrier often soothes crying. The warmth of your body and the regular movement have a calming effect. Discover our collection Babywearing — Wraps & Ergonomic Baby Carriers.

2. Tummy massage

Gently massage your baby's tummy clockwise with suitable massage oil. This helps move gas and relieve abdominal pain.

3. White noise

Repetitive noises such as a vacuum cleaner, hairdryer, or a white noise app remind the baby of sounds heard in the womb and can quickly calm them.

4. Anti-colic position

Hold your baby face down on your forearm (football hold) or on your lap. The gentle pressure on the tummy helps release gas.

5. Gentle warmth

A warm (not hot!) hot water bottle wrapped in a towel placed on the baby's tummy can provide relief. Consult our soft baby towels and bath accessories.

6. Adjust diet (if breastfeeding)

Certain foods consumed by the mother can worsen colic: cabbage, broccoli, caffeine, dairy products. Try eliminating them temporarily to see if the situation improves.

7. Check pacifier and bottle-feeding position

If your baby is bottle-fed, ensure the nipple has the correct flow and that the baby is not swallowing too much air. Hold the baby semi-inclined during feeding and burp them afterward.

When to see a doctor?

According to Health Canada and the CPS, consult your pediatrician promptly if:

• 🚨 Baby has a fever (over 38°C)
• 🚨 Crying is accompanied by significant vomiting
• 🚨 Baby is not gaining weight or is losing weight
• 🚨 Blood appears in the stools
• 🚨 Baby seems to be in great pain or is inconsolable for more than 3 hours straight
• 🚨 You feel overwhelmed or at your wit's end — ask for help!

A word for parents

Colic is challenging, but it passes. Take care of yourselves too: take turns with your partner, accept help from those around you, and don't hesitate to safely place your baby in their crib for a few minutes if you feel overwhelmed. Find all our essential baby accessories to get through this period peacefully.