Dear Mamy, we see you. You’ve fed, burped, and changed your little bundle of joy, but they’re still crying—loudly and endlessly. If this sounds familiar, your baby might have colic. It’s exhausting, frustrating, and downright overwhelming, but don’t worry, you’re not alone! Let’s walk through what colic really is and, more importantly, how to soothe your baby (and yourself!).
What exactly is Colic?
Colic is when a healthy baby cries for long stretches, often for no clear reason. It usually starts around 2 to 3 weeks of age and peaks at 6 weeks, before gradually easing off by 3 to 4 months. The general rule? If your baby cries for more than three hours a day, three days a week, for over three weeks, colic might be the culprit.
Signs of colic:
- Intense crying that sounds more like screaming
- Clenched fists and arched back
- A bloated tummy with lots of gas
- Fussiness that seems worse in the evening
Soothing Strategies for a Colicky Baby
Every baby is different, so finding what works best may take some trial and error. Here are some tried-and-tested ways to calm your little one:
1. The Power of Motion
Babies love movement because it reminds them of the womb. Try:
- Rocking or bouncing – Use a rocking chair, baby swing, or even gentle knee bounces.
- Babywearing – A snug wrap or carrier can work wonders.
- Car rides – The gentle hum and motion of a car often send babies to dreamland.
2. Swaddle Like a Pro
A snug, cozy swaddle can make your baby feel secure and help reduce startle reflexes. Use a light cotton or muslin cloth and ensure their hips aren’t too tight to allow natural movement.
3. White Noise & Gentle Sounds
Babies spent months in a noisy womb! Mimic that environment with:
- White noise machines or phone apps
- A fan or vacuum cleaner sound
- A soft “shhh” whispered near their ear
- Gentle lullabies or classical music
4. Tummy Time & Gas Relief
Colicky babies often have gas troubles. Try:
- Tummy massages in slow, circular motions
- Bicycle leg movements to release trapped air
- A warm towel on the tummy for comfort
- Holding your baby in the “colic carry” (tummy-down along your arm)
5. The Magic of Sucking
Sucking is a natural soothing reflex. Offer:
- A pacifier
- Your clean pinky finger
- Extra breastfeeding time (if your baby is still hungry)
6. Check for Hidden Discomfort
- Could it be a wet diaper? 👶💦
- Are their clothes too tight?
- Is the room too hot or too cold?
- Have you checked for a hair wrapped around their tiny fingers or toes? (It happens!)
What About Mamy? Taking Care of Yourself
Colic isn’t just hard on babies—it’s hard on mamies too. Sleep deprivation, frustration, and helplessness can make you feel like you’re failing, but you’re not! Here’s how to care for yourself:
- Take breaks – If you feel overwhelmed, place your baby in a safe crib and step away for a few minutes.
- Ask for help – Your partner, family, or friends can step in so you can rest.
- Try deep breathing – Just a few slow inhales and exhales can help calm your nerves.
- Find a support group – Talking to other parents going through the same thing can be comforting.
Remember, a calm Mamy makes for a calm baby. You’re doing your best, and that’s more than enough. 💛
When to Call the Doctor?
While colic is common, sometimes excessive crying can signal another issue. Reach out to your pediatrician if:
- Your baby has a fever or isn’t feeding well.
- The crying sounds different than usual.
- They are vomiting or have diarrhea.
- You just feel like something isn’t right (trust your instincts!).
This Too Shall Pass
Colic won’t last forever, even if it feels endless now. By 3 to 4 months, your baby’s digestive system matures, and those long crying spells fade. Until then, keep trying different soothing methods, take breaks when needed, and remind yourself—you’re an amazing Mamy, and you’ve got this. 🌸💕
