What Is Colic?

About one in five babies suffer from colic, crying intensely for more than three hours a day, often in the evening. If your baby has it, he will typically draw his knees up and have a rigid back. It can continue for as much as a month or two, and even though it's a relatively short time, it can make your life a misery. But remember, it's a harmless condition, and doesn't mean your baby is in any danger.

What Causes Colic?

Nobody is sure what causes colic, although trapped gas is sometimes blamed. There is no single cause for colic and no single cure. But experts think it could be a combination of a number of things:

1. Your baby's immature nervous system

Basically, this means that your baby feels a bit overwhelmed by all the sights and sounds around them now that he's out of the snug womb and the only reaction available is to cry, until it all starts making more sense.

2. Your baby's diet

One theory is that your colicky baby might not yet have a fully development digestive system.

If you're breastfeeding, perhaps you're eating something that's unsettling your baby. Experiment with cutting out certain foods to see if it makes a difference.

If you're formula feeding, make sure that the nipple is always full of milk, so your baby doesn't take in too much air, and try to stop him from gulping down the milk too quickly. Excessive gas can make a baby unsettled and colicky.

3. Your baby's environment

Studies have shown that new moms who smoke around their babies, or who smoked during pregnancy are more likely to have colicky babies. It's thought that the toxins in the smoke could cause your baby's system to produce a certain type of protein, which can upset digestion.

Coping with colic.

Sometimes you just have to wait it out, but in the meantime, here are some things that you can try:

• Rock your baby. This can be very soothing. Try an infant swing, a rocking chair or take your baby out for a drive.
• Burp your baby more during feeding, and try colic drops to see if this eases the symptoms.
• Check your diet if you're breastfeeding to see if there are any foods which may unsettle your baby.
• If you are formula feeding, check that you are preparing your baby's infant formula correctly. Is it too hot or too cold? You may need to change the type of bottle or nipple. Do not change your baby's milk without talking to your healthcare professional first.
• Wrap your baby up in a snug blanket, or carry your baby in a sling to make him feel more secure.
• Check the obvious and make sure your baby is not crying because of hunger, tiredness or other discomfort such as diaper rash.
• If you are worried about your baby's crying, talk to your healthcare professional.
• Make sure you get a break. It can be very distressing if your baby won't stop crying. Find a way to take a little time out - perhaps a friend or family member can help.