Colic

When does it start?

Typically, colic starts in the first month, and goes on until your baby is three months or so.

It's not known why some babies are affected more than others, or why it sometimes suddenly disappears. It could be to do with immaturity of the gut, and as the baby's digestion matures, they become more able to tolerate the sensations of digestion. Alternatively, it may be bubbles of trapped wind, causing discomfort.

Possible signs of colic

• The baby is unable to be comforted
• It occurs in babies under four months of age
• It's usually worse in the evening after feeding and is often highlighted by high-pitched screaming

Possible ways to relieve colic

• Massage - apply gentle pressure on the tummy by, for example, holding your baby across the crook of your arm or face down over your knees, or upright over your shoulder and rubbing your baby's back and/or tummy.
• Diet - if breastfeeding, think about your diet to see whether particular foods you eat seem to make your baby's colic worse. It's unusual for this to be the case, but it's worth thinking about, even so.
• Teats - if bottlefeeding, try anti-colic teats.
• Formula - if formula feeding ask your health visitor about different brands, including formula for unsettled, hungry or lactose-intolerant babies
• Sucking - offer your baby a chance to suck on breast, bottle or dummy as this can be comforting.
• Medication - always check with your doctor, pharmacist or health visitor before giving your baby any medications. Various over-the-counter preparations may help, such as herbal drinks, homeopathic drops, gripe water and baby colic medications.
• 'Colic dance' - while hugging your baby (some prefer to be held slightly away from your body to have eye contact) gently sway with your knees bent, alternating back and forward, side to side and up and down. Some babies like a low humming sound at the same time.

Take care of yourself

If your baby is 'colicy' in the evenings, make sure lunch is your main meal of the day and your main source of protein and energy. You'll need to keep your strength up.

Many parents find the stress of a 'colicy' baby becomes too much. Ensure you have support and are able to take a break. Try to share the crying times. You could also ask your health visitor if there are any local support groups for parents of crying babies.

If your baby's crying ever becomes more than you feel you can stand, pass the baby to someone else, or if you're alone, put him down safely in a cot or pram and go into another room where you can't hear the crying, so you can calm down before trying again.