The Truth About Colic: Why Most Babies Cry for Comfort, Not Because of Tummy Pain

If your newborn cries for hours and nothing seems to help, it’s easy to think, “My baby has colic.” But what if most of that crying isn’t actually caused by colic or tummy pain at all?

According to pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp, author of The Happiest Baby on the Block, in most cases what parents call “colic” isn’t a medical problem — it’s a comfort and support problem. Your baby’s intense crying might be less about gas or digestion and more about adjusting to life outside the womb.

Let’s look at what research says about colic, what really causes most crying, and how you can help your baby feel safe and calm.

What Is Colic?

Doctors use the word colic when a healthy baby cries more than:

• 3 hours a day

• 3 days a week

• for at least 3 weeks

That definition describes the crying pattern — but not the cause. In fact, research shows that in most babies, there’s no clear medical or digestive reason for this level of crying.

According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health, fewer than 10% of “colicky” babies have an actual gastrointestinal issue like reflux or allergy. Most are otherwise thriving — eating well, gaining weight, and passing normal stools.

So if it’s not really about the tummy, what’s going on?

The Real Reason Most Babies Cry So Much

Dr. Karp explains that babies are born three months early in terms of development. He calls those first months after birth the “fourth trimester.”

In the womb, babies are surrounded by:

• Constant motion

• Warmth and snug pressure

• The rhythmic sound of your heartbeat and blood flow

Then suddenly, they enter a bright, quiet, still world — and their nervous systems just aren’t ready for it. The crying that we call “colic” is often your baby’s way of saying,

“I’m overwhelmed. I need to feel safe again.”

So rather than “tummy pain,” the crying may come from:

• Overstimulation

• Fatigue

• Needing more contact or motion

• Feeling unsafe when put down too soon or too much

When It is a True “Tummy Problem”

While most crying is normal adjustment, some babies do have digestive pain or medical issues that need attention.

Call your pediatrician if your baby:

• Isn’t gaining weight

• Vomits often or spits up forcefully

• Has blood in the stool

• Has a fever, rash, or seems unusually weak

These “big tummy problems” are rare but important to rule out before assuming it’s just colic.

The “Fourth Trimester” Solution: Re-Creating the Womb

Once you know your baby is healthy, focus on helping them feel supported like they were in the womb. Dr. Karp’s famous 5 S’s from The Happiest Baby on the Block can calm most crying babies in minutes:

1. Swaddle – Wrap baby snugly to mimic the womb’s embrace.

2. Side or stomach position – Hold baby on their side or tummy (for soothing only, always sleep on the back).

3. Shush – Use white noise to recreate the sounds of the womb.

4. Swing – Gentle motion helps trigger the baby’s natural calming reflex.

5. Suck – Pacifiers or nursing provide soothing comfort.

These aren’t just tricks — they meet your baby’s biological needs for rhythm, warmth, and closeness.

Why “Colic” Usually Fades by 3–4 Months

If your baby cries every evening but is otherwise healthy, know that it’s temporary. Studies show that excessive crying due to colic peaks around 6 weeks and usually improves by 3 to 4 months as the baby’s nervous system matures.

That’s why “colic” often disappears on its own — not because the tummy healed, but because your baby’s brain learned how to self-soothe and feel safe in the world.

How Parents Can Cope

Caring for a crying baby can be exhausting and emotional. Remember:

• You’re not doing anything wrong.

• Crying doesn’t mean your baby is in constant pain.

• Take breaks when you can — even a few minutes can reset your nerves.

• Ask for help from your partner, family, or a trusted friend.

Your calm presence is the best medicine your baby can get.

Key Takeaways

• Most “colic” isn’t caused by tummy pain. It’s usually a normal adjustment to life outside the womb.

• Real digestive issues are rare but should be ruled out by your pediatrician.

• Babies cry to feel safe and connected, not because you’re doing something wrong.

• Re-creating womb-like sensations with the 5 S’s can dramatically reduce crying.

If your baby’s crying feels overwhelming or you’re unsure whether it’s just normal fussiness or something more, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether it’s your pediatrician, a certified sleep consultant, or a trusted parenting professional, getting guidance can help you feel confident and give your baby the care they need. You don’t have to navigate these early months alone — a little help can make a big difference for both you and your baby.