Introduction
If you’re a new mom, chances are you’ve heard the dreaded word “colic.” Maybe your baby has cried for hours, and everyone around you had an opinion:
- “It’s just gas, give gripe water!”
- “You must have eaten spicy food.”
- “Your baby will grow out of it, don’t worry.”
When I first faced colic with my baby, I felt confused and helpless. My heart ached, and I kept wondering: “Am I doing something wrong?”
But after many sleepless nights, pediatric visits, and tons of research, I realized that most of what moms hear about colic are myths that create guilt, not solutions. So, let’s bust the 7 most common colic myths with science-backed facts and mom-tested solutions. This blog will help you separate colic myths vs. facts, so you can parent with confidence and compassion.
Myth 1: Colic is Caused by Bad Parenting
Fact: Colic is not your fault.
New moms often blame themselves. But according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), colic is a developmental phase, not a reflection of parenting skills.
✅ Holding, loving, or feeding styles do not cause colic.
✅ Crying is your baby’s way of communication, not an indicator of poor care.
👉 Takeaway for Moms: If you’re doing your best, you’re already a good mom. Don’t let the crying define your worth.
Reference: American Academy of Pediatrics – Colic: What It Is and What Helps
Myth 2: Colic is Just Gas
Fact: Gas may add discomfort, but colic is much more complex.
Some babies gulp air while crying, making gas a side issue. But research suggests colic can be linked to:
- Immature digestive system
- Overstimulation from the environment
- Developing nervous system
- Sensitivity to new experiences
So, gas drops or burping alone won’t solve colic.
👉 Read More: Colic in Newborns: Causes, Symptoms, and Gentle Remedies
Reference: Mayo Clinic – Colic in Babies
Myth 3: Changing Mom’s Diet Cures Colic Immediately
Fact: Food can play a role, but it’s not the only cause.
Some studies show that cutting cow’s milk, caffeine, or spicy foods may help breastfeeding moms. But it’s not universal. Eliminating foods without guidance can cause stress and nutritional imbalance.
👉 Always consult a pediatrician before making major dietary changes.
Reference: National Library of Medicine – Maternal Diet and Infantile Colic
While diet is not the sole cause of colic, mindful eating can support both mom and baby’s overall well-being. I’ve also shared some timeless wisdom on how food affects our body and mind in my blog on Ancient Eating Wisdom from the Bhagavad Gita, which many new moms find grounding during this phase.
Myth 4: Colicky babies cry nonstop, all day long
Fact: Colic follows the “Rule of 3s.”
Doctors often define colic as:
- Crying for 3 hours a day
- At least 3 days a week
- For more than 3 weeks
Your baby may still smile, feed well, and sleep in between.
👉 Recognizing patterns helps moms feel less panicked.
Reference: Cleveland Clinic – Colic in Babies
Myth 5: There is one magic cure for colic
Fact: There’s no universal cure, only soothing strategies.
Colic improves naturally with time. However, parents can try gentle methods:
- White noise & lullabies: Calming womb-like sounds
- Swaddling: Mimics the secure environment of the womb
- Gentle rocking/walking: Rhythmic motion relaxes infants
- Warm baths or tummy massages: Relieves discomfort
If you’d like to explore how music can soothe your baby, check out my post on the magic of lullabies and white noise.
Myth 6: Colic means something is wrong with my baby
Fact: Colic is not a disease.
Colic does not harm your baby long-term. It is not linked to developmental delays or future health issues. However, it’s important to rule out:
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Food allergies (like cow’s milk protein allergy)
- Illness or infections
👉 Mom Tip: If your baby has fever, poor weight gain, vomiting, or blood in stool, see your pediatrician immediately.
Myth 7: Colic will last forever
Fact: Colic improves with age.
Most babies outgrow colic by 3-4 months. By 6 months, it usually disappears completely.
👉 This phase is temporary, even if it feels never-ending right now.
Practical Tips for Moms
🌸 Create a crying diary: Track triggers, duration, soothing methods.
🌸 Practice the “5 S’s” (Dr. Harvey Karp’s method): Swaddle, Side/stomach position, Shush, Swing, Suck.
🌸 Step outside: A short walk in fresh air calms both mom and baby.
🌸 Ask for help: If it’s overwhelming, let your partner, friend, or family hold the baby while you rest.
Final Thoughts
Colic may feel overwhelming, but it’s temporary, not your fault, and doesn’t mean anything is wrong with your baby. With patience, support, and gentle soothing strategies, both you and your little one will get through this phase. 💜
👉 Remember, mama:
✨ Colic is temporary.
✨ It’s not your fault.
✨ Your baby will be okay.
So mama, take a deep breath. You’re doing enough, and you’re not alone in this journey. 💜
At Mom & Moksha, I share not just facts but also the emotional side of motherhood, because parenting isn’t just about surviving — it’s about growing with your baby.
