Colic in Newborns: Signs, Soothing & When to Call the GP

Oh, the sound of a crying newborn. It's often described as music to our ears when it's their first cry, but when it becomes relentless, inconsolable, and seemingly without cause, it can quickly turn into a source of immense stress and exhaustion for even the most patient parents. If you're navigating the challenging waters of a persistently crying newborn, you might be wondering if colic is to blame. Please know, you are not alone, and it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed. We're here to help you understand what colic is, how to soothe your little one, and when it's time to reach out for professional support.

Understanding Colic: The "Rule of Threes"

Colic isn't a disease; rather, it's a temporary behavioural diagnosis given to otherwise healthy newborns who experience periods of unexplained, intense crying. In Australia, healthcare professionals, including your Maternal Health Nurse, often refer to the "Rule of Threes" to help identify colic:

• Crying for more than three hours a day
• Crying for more than three days a week
• Crying for more than three weeks

These crying spells usually begin around 2-3 weeks of age, peak around 6 weeks, and typically resolve on their own by 3-4 months. While it can feel like an eternity when you're in the thick of it, remember that colic is a phase, and it does pass. The crying associated with colic is often described as high-pitched, intense, and accompanied by physical signs like a flushed face, clenched fists, arched back, and legs pulled up towards the tummy. These episodes often occur in the late afternoon or evening, but they can strike at any time.

What Causes Colic?

The exact cause of colic remains a bit of a mystery, which can be frustrating for parents seeking a definitive answer. However, several theories are commonly discussed:

• Immature Digestive System: A newborn's digestive system is still developing, and some believe that gas, indigestion, or spasms in the gut could contribute to discomfort.
• Gas: While gas doesn't cause colic, excessive swallowing of air during crying can exacerbate discomfort and create a vicious cycle.
• Overstimulation: Newborns are adjusting to a world full of new sights, sounds, and sensations. Some theories suggest that an immature nervous system might struggle to process this influx of information, leading to evening 'witching hours' of crying as they wind down.
• Food Sensitivities: In some cases, a sensitivity to something in the mother's diet (if breastfeeding) or a component of formula can contribute to colic-like symptoms. This is less common but worth exploring with a GP or IBCLC if other strategies aren't working.
• Reflux: While distinct from colic, gastroesophageal reflux (GER) can cause significant discomfort and crying. Your GP can help differentiate between colic and reflux.

It's important to remember that colic is not your fault, and it doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong as a parent. Your newborn is simply going through a challenging developmental stage.

Soothing Strategies for Colicky Newborns

While there's no magic bullet for colic, many parents find a combination of soothing techniques helpful. The key is often trial and error, finding what works best for your individual newborn. Patience and persistence are your best friends here!

• The "Five S's" (Harvey Karp): This popular method focuses on recreating the womb-like environment.
  1. Swaddling: Tightly wrapping your newborn in a blanket can provide a sense of security and prevent startling reflexes. Ensure it's not too tight around the hips.
  2. Side/Stomach Position: While always put your newborn to sleep on their back, holding them on their side or stomach across your arm can offer comfort during crying spells.
  3. Shushing: Loud, continuous "shushing" sounds mimic the sound of blood flow in the womb. White noise machines or apps can also be effective.
  4. Swinging/Swaying: Gentle, rhythmic movement, such as rocking in your arms, a baby swing (use sparingly and under supervision), or even a car ride, can be calming.
  5. Sucking: Offering a dummy, a clean finger, or encouraging breastfeeding can provide comfort.
• Tummy Time & Massage: Gently massaging your newborn's tummy in a clockwise direction can help release trapped gas. Supervised tummy time, even for short periods, can also aid digestion and muscle development.
• Burping: Ensure your newborn is burped frequently during and after feeds to minimise swallowed air.
• Feeding Adjustments: If breastfeeding, an IBCLC can help assess your latch and position to reduce air intake. If formula feeding, discuss different bottles or formulas with your Maternal Health Nurse or GP. Sometimes, slower-flow teats can help.
• Warm Bath: A warm bath can be incredibly relaxing for some newborns, helping to soothe their muscles and distract them from discomfort.
• Pacing Yourself: Remember, it's okay to take a break. If you feel overwhelmed, safely place your newborn in their cot and step into another room for a few minutes to compose yourself. Ask for help from your partner, family, or friends. Check out our free parenting tools for resources to help you cope.

When to Seek Professional Help

While colic is generally harmless and resolves on its own, it's crucial to rule out other potential causes for your newborn's distress. Always trust your parental instincts. If something doesn't feel right, or if you're concerned, don't hesitate to contact your GP or Maternal Health Nurse. Here are some specific signs that warrant a medical consultation:

• Fever: Any fever in a newborn (temperature over 38°C) needs immediate medical attention.
• Poor Feeding: If your newborn is refusing feeds, feeding significantly less than usual, or showing signs of dehydration (fewer wet nappies, sunken fontanelle).
• Vomiting: Persistent or forceful vomiting, especially if it's green or bloody. Occasional spit-up is normal, but significant vomiting is not.
• Diarrhoea or Bloody Stools: Any unusual changes in stool consistency or the presence of blood should be investigated.
• Lethargy or Unresponsiveness: If your newborn is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake, or seems unresponsive.
• Rash: Any unexplained rash, especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
• Unusual Crying: If the crying sounds different from their usual cry – perhaps very weak, high-pitched, or if they seem to be in pain rather than just distressed.
• Weight Loss or Poor Weight Gain: Your Maternal Health Nurse monitors weight gain closely, but if you notice your newborn isn't gaining weight or is losing it, seek advice.
• You feel unable to cope: The emotional toll of a colicky newborn is immense. If you're experiencing feelings of anxiety, depression, or feel you can't cope, please reach out to your GP or a mental health professional. Support is available.

Your GP or Maternal Health Nurse can perform a thorough examination to rule out underlying medical conditions and provide reassurance or further guidance. They might suggest dietary changes, medication for reflux, or refer you to a specialist if needed. You can also monitor your newborn's feeding and sleeping patterns using our dashboard tools to provide helpful data to your healthcare provider.

Looking After Yourself During Colic

Caring for a colicky newborn is one of the most challenging experiences a parent can face. It's emotionally and physically draining, and it's absolutely vital that you prioritise your own well-being. Remember the old adage: you can't pour from an empty cup.

• Ask for Help: Don't be a hero. Lean on your partner, family, friends, or even professional support services. Let them hold your newborn while you shower, eat a hot meal, or simply have a few moments of quiet.
• Rest When You Can: Sleep deprivation is a form of torture. Even short naps can make a difference. If your newborn is sleeping, try to sleep too, rather than tackling chores.
• Connect with Other Parents: Sharing your experiences with others who understand can be incredibly validating. Parent groups, online forums, or even just a chat with a friend can help you feel less isolated.
• Practice Self-Compassion: There will be days when you feel like you're failing. You're not. You're doing an amazing job under incredibly tough circumstances. Be kind to yourself.
• Take Breaks: If the crying becomes too much, it's okay to put your newborn down safely in their cot and step away for a few minutes. Take some deep breaths, listen to calming music, or call a supportive friend. This isn't neglect; it's responsible parenting, ensuring you don't reach breaking point. For more guidance on coping with the emotional load, explore our Precious Five resources.

Colic is a temporary storm, and you will get through it. Keep reminding yourself that your newborn's crying is not a reflection of your parenting skills, and it will eventually pass. Focus on providing comfort, seeking support, and taking care of yourself. You're doing a wonderful job, and your little one is lucky to have you.

Related reading: understanding your baby's temperature

How to recognise attachment between you and your child

How to recognise attachment between you and your child

Attachment is the emotional bond that develops as your child learns that you are available, comforting and dependable. It grows through many ordinary moments—feeding, cuddling, talking, playing and responding when they need you. It is not measured by constant happiness, independence or how quickly crying stops.

Signs your child may feel securely connected

• They seek you when distressed: Your child may reach, call, crawl or come towards you, or settle more easily with your voice, touch or presence.
• They check that you are nearby: During play or exploration, they may look back, make eye contact, bring you an object or return for reassurance.
• They share experiences: Smiling, copying sounds, pointing, showing you something interesting or enjoying back-and-forth play all support connection.
• They respond to reunions: They may brighten, reach for you, become tearful or need a cuddle when you return. Different reunion responses can all reflect that your presence matters.
• They reconnect after difficult moments: Attachment does not require perfect harmony. Repairing after frustration—by returning, soothing and reconnecting—is an important part of a secure relationship.

Temperament, age, illness, tiredness, neurodivergence and developmental stage can affect how attachment behaviours look. Some children are very expressive; others show connection quietly. Babies with colic may continue crying while being lovingly held. This does not mean they are rejecting you or that your bond is damaged.

Ways to nurture attachment

• Notice and respond to your child's cues as consistently as you can.
• Offer warm eye contact, gentle touch and back-and-forth interaction without forcing engagement.
• Comfort them when distressed, even when you cannot identify or remove the cause.
• Reconnect after separations or moments when either of you became overwhelmed.

Contact your maternal and child health nurse, midwife or GP if your child rarely seeks or accepts comfort, shows little social interaction or loses previously gained skills, or if you feel persistently detached, anxious or overwhelmed. They can consider development, hearing, health and family wellbeing. If you fear you may hurt yourself or your child, place your child somewhere safe and contact emergency services on 000.