Posted on August 01, 2025
Colic: Understanding the Cry, Guiding the Calms
Category:Wellness
In those fragile first months of life, every cry from your baby carries meaning — even if it doesn’t always come with a clear explanation. Colic is one of those mysteries that many parents encounter, and while it can be deeply unsettling, it is also one of the most well-understood and manageable challenges of early infancy.
At C&A Pharmaceuticals, we believe knowledge is care. And when parents are empowered with clear, evidence-based insight, they become calm in their child’s storm.
For The Brand New Mom: “What Is Happening?!”
First-time mama? Welcome to the colic club. You’re not doing anything wrong. Your baby isn’t mad at you.
You’ll ask yourself: Is my milk upsetting them? Are they allergic to the formula? Should I call the doctor again? (For the third time today?)” Why does this happen every evening like clockwork? Am I allowed to cry too?”
Yes, you are. And yes, colic is often worse in the late afternoon and evening also known as the "witching hours." You're not alone. And it’s not forever.
For The Seasoned Mom: “Oh, We’re Back Here Again.”
This isn't your first colic rodeo. Maybe baby #1 had it. Maybe baby #2 skipped it (and you thought you were blessed). Now baby #3 is here to remind you: every child is different.
Use your experience but don’t be afraid to ask for help again. Colic is humbling. Even the pros need backup.
What Is Colic Really?
Colic is more than just crying. It’s a pattern of intense, prolonged, and often unsoothable fussiness that affects otherwise healthy babies — usually starting around the second or third week of life and peaking at six to eight weeks.
While colic has no single cause, many factors may contribute — from an immature digestive system, to gas buildup, to sensory overload in a world that’s suddenly too bright, loud, and unfamiliar.
But here’s the most important truth: colic is temporary. It is not a reflection of your parenting or your baby’s health. It is a phase of adjustment — and with the right guidance, you and your baby will navigate it together.
When Should You Suspect Colic?
The signs are consistent and typically follow what’s known as the “Rule of Threes”: crying for more than three hours a day, at least three days a week, for three or more consecutive weeks.
You may notice that the crying tends to build in the late afternoon or evening. Your baby may clench their fists, arch their back, or pull their legs toward their belly. And though they seem to be in distress, they feed well, gain weight, and look healthy in every other way.
As a parent driven by purpose and clarity, this may be especially frustrating — but knowing what’s happening is already your first step toward managing it with confidence.
How Can You Ease Colic and Reclaim Calm?
There’s no one-size-fits-all remedy for colic — but there are proven, practical strategies that can help bring relief:
· Begin with feeding right: If breastfeeding, try simplifying your diet by cutting out dairy or overly stimulating foods like caffeine or spices. If your baby is on formula, talk to your doctor about hypoallergenic options that may be gentler on your baby's system.
· Reduce swallowed air: Feed in an upright position and burp your baby often.
· Anti-colic bottles can help reduce gas buildup.
· Soothe through rhythm and routine: Motion often mimics the womb — rocking, baby-wearing, even a gentle car ride may ease discomfort. White noise or soft shushing sounds can calm an overstimulated nervous system.
· Try tummy relief techniques: Gentle abdominal massage or supervised tummy time can help relieve trapped gas and strengthen muscles for digestion.
· Most importantly, be consistent and calm: Your energy becomes your baby’s anchor. The routine you create — even if it doesn’t instantly soothe the crying — becomes a trusted rhythm in an otherwise unpredictable world.
Where Does Sleep Fit Into This Phase?
Sleep can feel elusive when colic strikes — but it’s not out of reach. Establishing a soothing bedtime routine is essential. Dim the lights. Swaddle securely. Create a quiet, consistent space for your baby to wind down. It may take time, but every small, repeated cue helps regulate their nervous system and teach them when it’s time to rest.
During the day, keep wake windows short and predictable. An overtired baby is more likely to be inconsolable. Even contact naps — where your baby sleeps on your chest — can be restorative. Remember, rest for them often means rest for you, too.
When Should You Be Concerned?
While colic is common, it’s also important to stay alert. Trust your intuition. If something feels off, seek guidance.
Contact your pediatrician if:
- The crying changes suddenly in tone or intensity
- Your baby has a fever, is vomiting persistently, or has blood in their stool
- They appear overly sleepy, refuse to feed, or lose weight
- You feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained
Your strength lies not in knowing all the answers — but in knowing when to seek support. And that’s where we come in.
Why Does Understanding Colic Matter?
Because empowered parents create empowered babies. When you understand the root of the crying, you stop reacting with panic — and start responding with presence. You become the calm your baby needs.
As a parent, you are the steward of your child’s early journey. And every decision you make — every question you ask — is part of the transformation from helplessness to harmony.
At C&A Pharmaceuticals, we walk that path with you. Guided by science. Grounded in care and Committed to your family’s well being.