Colic in infants: when abdominal pain becomes a challenge

The first months of a baby's life are characterized by many adjustments - for the child itself and also for the parents. It is not uncommon for colic to occur, which manifests itself in prolonged crying, restlessness and visible abdominal discomfort. For parents, this often means stress, helplessness and sleepless nights.

Colic as a regulatory disorder

Colic is considered a form of regulatory disorder: the baby's young nervous system is not yet fully mature, making it difficult to process stimuli and calm itself down. Added to this is the immature digestive system, which can lead to flatulence, abdominal pain and tension.
The combination of physical immaturity and the lack of ability to self-regulate exacerbates the symptoms - a cycle that can be very stressful for both child and parents.

Typical signs of colic

• Prolonged, shrill crying, often in the evening
• Tightening of the legs towards the stomach
• Tense, bloated tummy
• Restlessness and difficulty falling asleep

What parents can do: Everyday tips for relief

Even if colic disappears on its own - usually by the 3rd or 4th month of life - parents can do a few things to ease their child's discomfort:

• Create a calm environment: Reduce stimuli by dimming lights, using calm voices and minimizing distractions.
• Use physical contact: Carrying in a sling, gentle rocking or skin-to-skin contact have a calming effect and convey a sense of security.
• Use warmth: A warm cherry stone cushion or a warm bath can relax the abdominal muscles.
• Abdominal massages: Gentle, circular movements in a clockwise direction promote digestion.
• Cycling with your legs: Supports the release of air and loosens tense abdominal muscles.
• Check breastfeeding technique: Sometimes it helps to change the drinking position. The assumption that a lot of air is swallowed during bottle feeding has been disproved, as the air in the bottle rises to the bottom during feeding.
• Take breaks: When feeding, take a short break from time to time to let your baby burp.
• Support with baby drops: The specially developed drops can help to regulate digestion and relieve flatulence. Many parents report noticeable relief during the colic phase.

Relief for parents

Just as important as relieving the child's discomfort is relieving the parents. A crying baby for hours on end can be draining. It is perfectly okay to accept help from your partner, family or friends to allow for short breaks.

Comment by Katharina Puth-Weinand:

"Colic in infants is stressful, but in the vast majority of cases it is harmless and temporary. Parents should realize that they are not alone with this issue and that there are many ways to support their baby during this phase. In addition to closeness, warmth and patience, special baby drops can also be a valuable help to relieve the little belly."