How to Handle Colic in Newborns: Survival Tips for Exhausted Parents

It’s 3 a.m., and your newborn has been crying for hours. You’ve fed, changed, and rocked them, but nothing works. Your baby arches their back, clenches fists, and cries with a force that feels endless. If this sounds familiar, you’re likely facing colic—a common and exhausting part of early parenting.

While colic is not harmful long-term, it’s emotionally and physically draining. But the good news? You’re not alone, and this phase does pass. Here’s your guide on how to handle colic in newborns with confidence, calm, and compassion.

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What Is Colic?

Colic is defined as unexplained, intense crying in a healthy baby that typically follows the “Rule of Threes”:

• Cries for more than 3 hours a day
• More than 3 days a week
• Lasts for 3 weeks or more

It usually starts around 2–3 weeks old and peaks at 6 weeks, with most babies improving by 3–4 months.

Common Signs of Colic:

• High-pitched crying, usually in the evening
• Clenched fists, arched back, stiff legs
• Difficulty calming down despite soothing
• Passing gas or signs of bloating

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1. Soothe with the “5 S’s” Method

Dr. Harvey Karp’s famous “5 S’s” technique is known to calm colicky babies by mimicking womb sensations:

• Swaddle: Wrap your baby snugly in a breathable blanket to mimic security.
• Side or Stomach Hold: Hold your baby on their side or tummy (only while soothing, never for sleep).
• Shush: Use a white noise machine or shushing sound near their ear.
• Swing: Gently rock or bounce them (use a baby swing if safe and supervised).
• Suck: Offer a pacifier or allow comfort nursing.

General Scenario Example:
Priya’s son would cry inconsolably between 6–10 p.m. nightly. After reading about the “5 S’s,” she began swaddling him and using a white noise machine while gently bouncing him in her arms. Within days, he began to settle faster—even during peak crying hours.

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2. Try a Warm Bath or Tummy Massage

A warm bath can help relax your baby’s tense muscles and distract them from discomfort. Follow it with a gentle tummy massage using clockwise motions to ease gas and bloating.

Massage Tips:

• Use warm baby oil
• Massage in a circular motion from navel outward
• Try the “bicycle legs” technique to relieve gas

General Scenario Example:
Ravi and Nisha found that giving their baby a warm bath followed by a soft tummy massage helped reduce evening crying. They made it part of their nightly routine, and their baby started sleeping better afterward.

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3. Monitor Feeding Techniques

Improper feeding can increase air intake and worsen colic symptoms. Small adjustments can make a big difference.

Feeding Fixes:

• Burp frequently: After every ounce or between breast switches
• Check bottle nipples: Too fast or too slow flow can lead to swallowing air
• Upright feeding: Helps reduce reflux and gas buildup
• Rule out allergies: If breastfeeding, try cutting dairy for 1–2 weeks

Expert Insight:
Dr. Renu Sharma, Pediatrician, notes:

“In many colicky babies, reducing swallowed air through proper feeding position and frequent burping reduces crying episodes significantly.”

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4. Use Soothing Sounds and Motion

Colicky babies are often comforted by repetitive, rhythmic motion and sound. Mimic the womb environment with:

• White noise machines or apps
• Car rides or stroller walks
• Rocking chairs or swings
• Vacuum cleaner or washing machine sounds (yes, really!)

General Scenario Example:
Sumanth would strap his baby in the car seat and drive around the block when crying wouldn’t stop. The hum of the engine combined with motion calmed his son in minutes.

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5. Consider Probiotics (After Pediatrician Approval)

Some studies suggest that infant probiotics, especially Lactobacillus reuteri, may help ease colic in breastfed babies by improving gut health.

• Usually given as daily drops
• Takes 7–14 days to see improvement
• Always consult your pediatrician first

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6. Track Triggers & Create a Routine

Keep a colic diary to log:

• When crying starts and ends
• What baby ate
• What soothing strategies worked
• Diaper changes and sleep times

This helps spot patterns and create a soothing evening routine.

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7. Take Care of Yourself

Colic is tough. Babies cry, but it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It’s okay to step away for a few minutes when you’re overwhelmed.

Self-care tips for colic parents:

• Tag-team with your partner for breaks
• Use noise-canceling headphones during soothing (while staying alert)
• Step outside for fresh air
• Reach out to parenting groups or friends who’ve been there

Expert Quote:

“Parental burnout during colic is real. The best thing you can do for your baby is take care of yourself too.”
— Dr. Meera Rao, Infant Mental Health Specialist

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For more learn

1. Want help creating bond with newborn: Get bonding with baby
2. Learn more about daily Brest feeding habits: How Often Should You Feed a Newborn?

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Amazon Product Suggestions

1. Hatch Rest Baby Sound Machine
   Description: “This sound machine doubles as a nightlight and offers a range of calming white noise, perfect for creating a womb-like environment that soothes colicky babies.”
   Amazon Link
2. Little Remedies Gas Relief Drops for Infants
   Description: “Gently relieves gas and bloating that often accompanies colic. Safe for newborns and easy to use—many parents report improvement within minutes.”
   Amazon Link

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Conclusion: You Can Handle This

Colic might feel like an endless storm, but it will pass. Whether it lasts a few weeks or a few months, know this: your baby isn’t broken, and neither are you. There’s no magic button—but there are tools, routines, and support to get you through. By understanding colic and using calming techniques like the 5 S’s, tummy massage, feeding adjustments, and sound therapy, you can ease your baby’s discomfort and reclaim your peace.

And on the hardest nights, remember—you’re doing an amazing job. Crying doesn’t mean failure. It means your baby needs comfort, and your presence matters more than you realize.

You’ve got this, and GlowwiseHub is here for you every step of the way.