Colic in Babies: What New Parents Need to Know About Colic From a Pediatrician by Elisa Schmitz

Newborns
2 years ago

Colic in Babies: What New Parents Need to Know About Colic From a Pediatrician

I spent some time with baby Paige and Dr. Anita Chandra, a pediatrician with Northwestern Medical Group in Chicago, to learn about colic, its causes and what parents can do to soothe their colicky babies. Dr. Chandra offered some helpful information as well as an important reminder that is sure to ease parents’ minds.

What Is Colic?

True colic is actually not that common. Your baby may have colic if she:

  • Is crying despite being fed well and changed.
  • Cries at predictable times.
  • Cries three hours a day, three days a week for three weeks in a row.

What Causes Colic? 

The medical community doesn’t know exactly, but it could be:

What Can Parents Do to Soothe Colicky Babies?

  • Rock your baby.
  • Swaddle.
  • Burp.
  • Warm bath.
  • Motion.
  • White noise (ex. use a sound machine or white noise app or run the vacuum cleaner).

Good news for new parents: According to Dr. Chandra, colic typically ends by 3 months of age. “There is an end in sight!”

Watch this video to see Dr. Chandra and I demonstrate swaddling and burping.

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community, and follow us on Facebook to get inspiration in your newsfeed daily. Inspire and be inspired.

Related Products on Amazon We Think You May Like:

30Second Mobile, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Baby’s First Feedings: Helpful Tips for New Parents From a Registered Dietitian

Baby's First Bath: 7 Steps to Make Bathing Baby a Safe & Soothing Experience

Baby Sleep Safety Tips: 4 Ways to Make Sleep Time Restful & Safe for Your Baby

Meet Your Newborn Baby: 7 Things Every New Parent Should Know About Newborns

Elisa Schmitz
Colic is so difficult because it's really hard to see your baby in distress, and feel powerless to help. I appreciated Dr. Chandra's wonderful insights, so helpful! Ann Marie Patitucci
Ann Marie Patitucci
Yes! Such helpful information and advice, Elisa and Dr. Chandra!
DAC Developments
Yes! Such valuable information and guidance

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Pregnancy Bed Rest: 10 Reasons Why Your Doctor Could Prescribe It!

Vaginal Health During Pregnancy & After Childbirth: Dr. Mache Seibel Answers 7 Common Questions From Pregnant Moms

​Period or Pregnant? 5 Things About Ectopic Pregnancy Women Trying to Conceive Should Know

Expert Q&A: Pregnant With Twins? Dr. Alan Lindemann Answers Common Pregnancy Questions About Having Twins