Colic is unexplained crying that occurs one or more times a day for one or two hours in a healthy, well-fed baby who is happy between crying spells. Colic occurs in about 10% of all babies and occurs in both boys and girls. Colic crying starts at about two weeks of age (although it can start earlier or later) and goes away by the time baby is three months old.

No one knows exactly what causes colic. It definitely is not caused by an illness or by pain.

We can try many different things to help your baby and to help you and your family cope with colic. If your baby is crying despite being well-fed, dry, and healthy (not in pain), you can try the following things:

• Cuddle or rock your baby in different positions when he or she cries. You can't spoil a baby during the first three or four months of life.
• Use a baby carrier (like a Snugli) to carry your baby during the day.
• Try a wind-up swing for your baby.
• Offer a pacifier.
• Take your baby for a walk in a stroller or for a ride in the car.
• Use a "Sleep-Tight" device (attaches under crib and simulates the motion and sound of a moving car.
• Give your baby a warm bath.
• If all else fails and the baby is still crying, let him cry himself to sleep (check every 15 minutes if he continues to cry).

Having a baby with colic can be very difficult for parents and for a family. Colic will go away eventually, but in the meantime you need plenty of support. Give yourself a break when you need it. Call on friends and family to help you. Call our office during regular hours if you want advice.

Call us immediately if:

• The crying becomes a painful cry.
• Your baby cries constantly for more that three hours and can¹t be consoled.
• You are feeling so tired and frustrated that you think that you might hurt your baby