All babies cry — it’s their main way of communicating. Crying usually increases from about 2 weeks, peaks around 6–8 weeks, and eases by 3–4 months. Colic is the name for long bouts of intense, hard-to-soothe crying in an otherwise healthy, growing baby — often described as more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week. It’s exhausting, but it isn’t caused by anything you did, and it passes.
Key takeaways
- Increased crying in the first months is a normal developmental phase.
- Check the basics first: hunger, diaper, temperature, tiredness, wind.
- Rhythm and closeness — swaddling, shushing, swaying, sucking — calm many babies.
- If you feel overwhelmed, it’s okay to put your baby down safely and take a break.
- Never shake a baby. Make sure every carer knows this.
The PURPLE crying period
Researchers describe this normal phase with the acronym PURPLE: crying Peaks around 2 months, is Unexpected, Resists soothing, your baby may look like they’re in Pain when they’re not, it’s Long-lasting, and often happens in the Evening. Knowing it’s a phase helps many parents cope.
Soothing techniques to try
| Technique | How |
|---|---|
| Swaddle | Snug arms, loose hips — and only until rolling begins (guide) |
| Side or tummy hold | Hold your baby on their side or tummy in your arms — always back down for sleep |
| Shush | Loud shushing near the ear or steady white noise |
| Swing / sway | Small, rhythmic movements; walking or rocking |
| Suck | Breast, bottle or pacifier |
| Change of scene | A walk outside, a warm bath, skin-to-skin contact |
Try one technique at a time for a few minutes before switching; too many changes can overstimulate.
Feeding-related causes
- Swallowed air: burp often and try paced bottle feeding — see our spit-up and burping guide.
- Cow’s milk protein allergy can cause crying with blood or mucus in stool, eczema or poor weight gain — talk to your pediatrician before changing formula or your diet.
- Overfeeding or fast flow can cause discomfort; slower nipples help.
Looking after yourself
- Take turns with a partner, friend or relative — even 20 minutes out of earshot helps.
- If you’re alone and reaching your limit, place your baby on their back in the crib, close the door, and breathe. Check back in 10–15 minutes.
- Earplugs or headphones can soften the sound while you soothe.
- Persistent low mood or anxiety deserves support — see our new parent guide for helplines.
- a fever (100.4°F / 38°C or higher in a baby under 3 months — call right away);
- vomiting, especially green or forceful, or blood in stool;
- poor feeding, fewer wet diapers or weight loss;
- a high-pitched or weak cry, unusual floppiness or sleepiness;
- crying that starts suddenly after a fall or injury.
Frequently asked questions
Do colic drops or gripe water work?
Evidence is limited. Check with your pediatrician before giving any remedy.
Will holding my baby a lot spoil them?
No. Young babies can’t be spoiled; responding to crying builds security.
When does colic end?
For most babies, by 3–4 months, and almost always by 6 months.
