Relieving baby colic: causes, tips and natural remedies

Infant colic is one of those little mysteries of early life. A baby who cries a lot, especially in the evenings, without anyone really knowing why… If you are right in the thick of it, take heart: you are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with your baby.

A simple definition

They present as intense, repeated crying episodes, often in the late afternoon or evening, with no identifiable medical cause. Baby cries, wriggles, and seems uncomfortable… yet is feeding well, gaining weight, and growing normally.

It is a difficult but temporary phase, affecting around 1 in 5 babies.

Typical signs

During these episodes, the baby appears tense and restless. Their tummy is often hard, and they may curl up, drawing their legs in. They sometimes struggle to settle to sleep, as though unable to release the tension that has built up.

These crying episodes are not related to hunger, illness, or a lack of parental care. It is not "your fault" — it is a phase that some babies go through, with varying degrees of intensity.

When do infant colic start and how long do they last?

The first episodes typically occur between the 2nd and 3rd week of life. They reach a peak at around 6 weeks. They then gradually decrease before disappearing, usually around 3 or 4 months. Even if this period can feel long and exhausting, it remains temporary. The vast majority of babies find their evenings becoming calmer as they grow.

The exact causes remain unclear. There is no single explanation, but rather several hypotheses which, combined, may contribute to some babies going through this phase more difficult than others.

During feeds, whether at the breast or from a bottle, babies sometimes swallow air. This build-up can increase intestinal discomfort and cause painful wind. Understanding the cause can help find ways to soothe your baby's colic. 

Main hypotheses

The most frequently cited explanation is the immaturity of the digestive system. During the first few weeks of life, a baby's digestive organs are still learning: they are discovering digestion, bowel transit, the regulation of wind… All of this can cause tension, discomfort and even pain.

Another important factor is the gut microbiome — in other words, the digestive flora. At birth, it is still not very diverse and takes several weeks to develop. This temporary imbalance can encourage the formation of air bubbles, bloating or increased sensitivity.

Sometimes, babies swallow air whilst feeding or crying, which further increases their intestinal discomfort. This is very common, especially if feeding happens in a rush or if the baby has a strong sucking reflex. The build-up of air can then make the pain worse.

Finally, the impact of the environment should not be underestimated: some babies are particularly sensitive to visual, auditory or emotional stimulation. A day full of new experiences, an irregular routine or excessive tiredness can be enough to trigger an episode at the end of the day.

In some cases, tummy aches also seem to be linked to food: either to the composition of infant formula, or indirectly to what the mother consumes if she is breastfeeding. But again, there is no strict rule: what upsets one baby will have no effect on another.

Colic and breastfeeding: is there a link?

Breast milk is not to blame — quite the contrary: it is perfectly suited to your baby's needs. However, some mothers notice an improvement in symptoms when they make slight changes to what they eat, particularly by temporarily reducing dairy products, stimulants (coffee, tea, chocolate), or certain fermentable vegetables. It may also be due to a compound present in a breastfeeding supplement taken by the mother. 

These adjustments are not necessary for everyone, and should always be made gently, without stress or excessive restriction. However, they may be worth exploring if digestive hypersensitivity is suspected.

A growing number of studies are also looking at the role of the maternal microbiome, which directly influences the baby's microbiome through birth and then breastfeeding. Taking care of your gut flora in the post-partum period (through diet or via a post partum supplement rich in probiotics) could therefore, indirectly, support the gut balance of the infant.

Even though colic is generally harmless and tends to resolve on its own, that does not mean there is nothing to be done. There are many gentle ways to help soothe your baby's colic and support them through this period. And sometimes, these small everyday gestures make a real difference — like a gentle massage.

Techniques to soothe baby's colic

During episodes, the most important thing is to comfort your baby, offering contact, warmth, and a soothing environment. Simply holding them upright against you in an anti-colic position can already help to ease discomfort from gas or digestive issues. Baby-wearing in a sling, for example, keeps your baby nestled close to you in an anti-colic position that encourages relaxation.

Another helpful technique is massage. A gentle clockwise tummy massage can also help to move trapped wind and relax the abdominal area. Some babies also respond well to gentle cycling movements with their legs, or a warm bath at the end of the day to release tension.

If your baby is very stimulated, a dimmed environment, a quiet room, white noise or being rocked in your arms may be enough to bring about a gradual sense of calm. Sometimes it is a matter of finding the right combination… and trying again the next day.

The importance of skin-to-skin contact

What brings the most comfort to a baby suffering from colic is… you. Physical contact with the parent, the sound of your heartbeat, your warmth: all familiar and reassuring anchors that can help them to relax.

Skin-to-skin contact is not limited to the first hours of life. Practising it regularly, particularly during evening crying spells, helps to reduce your baby's stress, lessen the intensity of their crying, and brings them comfort. Held close to you, they feel contained and secure — and it also encourages the production of oxytocin, the bonding and wellbeing hormone — for them, as well as for you.

It can be tempting to change feeds to "try something different". But be careful: a systematic change is not recommended unless advised by a medical professional. In certain specific cases, a hypoallergenic (HA) or comfort formula, which is easier to digest, may be suggested — but always with the agreement of your doctor or paediatrician.

If your baby is bottle-fed, the choice of teat and the way you feed can make a difference. A teat suited to their age, a flow that isn't too fast, and keeping your baby well angled to prevent them from swallowing too much air can all help to reduce colic.

If you are breastfeeding, it is not necessary to change your diet in every case. However, some mothers notice improvements by temporarily and moderately reducing certain foods such as dairy products, cabbage, onions, coffee or spicy foods. What works for one person will not necessarily work for another. The important thing is to observe your baby's reactions, without pressure or unnecessary restrictions.

It is also worth mentioning the benefit of supporting the maternal microbiome. By taking care of your gut flora after giving birth — through a varied diet rich in fibre and prebiotics, and potentially with the help of probiotics — you indirectly contribute to your baby's gut balance, particularly if you are breastfeeding.

While there is no miracle cure for colic, some natural remedies may offer a little relief alongside everyday soothing techniques. The idea is not to try everything at once, but to identify what might suit your infant, with kindness and common sense.

Probiotics

The gut microbiome plays a key role in an infant's digestion, bowel regularity and immune system. Certain probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, have shown promising results in reducing colic in infants, particularly those who are breastfed.

These probiotics can be given from the first few weeks of life, in courses of several weeks. They are generally well tolerated, but should always be used with the agreement of your doctor or paediatrician, to ensure they are suitable for your baby and their situation.

Digestive herbal teas for the mother (when breastfeeding)

Some plants are traditionally used to soothe mild digestive discomfort. Lemon balm, verbena or chamomile, taken as an infusion, can be consumed in breastfeeding herbal tea. Their active compounds pass slightly into breast milk and can, in some infants, have a beneficial effect.

On the other hand, it is not advisable to give herbal teas directly to an infant, even if they are natural. A very young baby's digestive function is still too immature, and these remedies, even gentle ones, may not be well tolerated. Always seek advice before use.

Osteopathy

Seeing a paediatric osteopath is a gentle, non-invasive approach that can prove very helpful in cases of colic. A practitioner trained in treating infants will be able to identify any postural or digestive tension — sometimes linked to birth — that may be affecting your baby's comfort.

A few sessions are often enough to see an improvement. It is a worthwhile avenue to explore, provided you consult a competent and recognised osteopath!

In the vast majority of cases, infant colic is benign and resolves on its own over time. But because it is never straightforward to tell the difference between crying caused by colic and that caused by another problem, it is important to know how to recognise the signs that should raise concern.

Warning signs to look out for

If your baby has a fever, refuses to feed, vomits repeatedly, or forcefully brings up milk, it is important to seek medical advice promptly. Likewise, very loose, bloody, or unusually smelling stools should be reported. Weight loss, a baby who becomes lethargic or unusually drowsy are also causes for concern.

These symptoms are not typical of simple colic. They may indicate an infection or another medical issue that requires the opinion of a doctor or paediatrician without delay.

Trusting your parental instinct

Outside of these situations, if you have the slightest doubt or feel overwhelmed, do not hesitate to seek advice. Parental instinct is often the best barometer: if you feel that "something is not right", it is better to ask for a professional opinion and be reassured, rather than remain worried. Healthcare professionals are there to support you and answer your questions, without judgement.

We talk a great deal about the baby when it comes to colic… but we mustn't forget the parents. Because these intense, unpredictable and repeated bouts of crying are often harder on them than on the child. Exhaustion builds, the sense of helplessness grows, and it is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed or discouraged.

An emotionally difficult experience

Watching your baby cry without being able to soothe them can be a real ordeal. You may find yourself wondering what you've done wrong, or feeling guilty for not finding a solution. Yet colic is not your fault: it is a common phase, and above all a temporary one. But that doesn't mean the emotional weight it brings should be minimised.

Tips for staying strong

In these moments, it is essential not to face things alone. Taking turns with a partner whenever possible, asking a loved one to step in, or simply allowing yourself a few minutes to breathe, can really make a difference. And if the situation becomes too overwhelming, don't hesitate to place the baby safely in their cot and take a brief moment to regain your composure.

Talking about your difficulties — whether with a healthcare professional, a midwife, a lactation consultant, or others who have been through it — can also help you feel less isolated and better supported.

Taking care of yourself, even through small gestures (a balanced meal, a comforting herbal tea, a peaceful shower), helps you maintain the energy and calm needed to support your baby.

Infant colic is common, often distressing to witness, but remains benign and, above all, temporary. It reflects the immaturity of the digestive system and your baby's heightened sensitivity to their new environment. Even if this period can feel never-ending, it always passes.

In the meantime, there are many ways to help soothe your baby: gentle massage, babywearing, a warm bath, probiotics, anti-colic positioning, osteopathy… Every baby is unique, and it is often a journey of trial and error, approached with patience and tenderness.

And above all, remember that you are not alone. These tears are not a sign that you are doing anything wrong. Taking care of yourself, asking for support, and accepting help is just as important as caring for your child.