Colic in Babies: A Guide for Grand Rapids, Michigan Parents

Colic is a common and stressful experience for many families in Grand Rapids and across West Michigan. It refers to periods of intense, unexplained crying in an otherwise healthy baby. These crying spells typically:

  • Start around 2–4 weeks of age
  • Peak around 6–8 weeks
  • Usually improve by 3–4 months of age

Colic episodes often happen in the late afternoon or evening and can last 3 hours or more. During these times, your baby may seem to be in pain, especially in the abdomen, even though no medical problem can be found.

How Common Is Colic?

Colic affects about one in three babies. In Grand Rapids, with many young families and growing neighborhoods from Eastown to Wyoming and Kentwood, pediatricians at Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health see colic regularly.

Key points:

  • Colic is very common and not a sign of bad parenting.
  • It usually goes away on its own without treatment.
  • The baby typically grows and develops normally despite the crying.

Symptoms of Colic

Your baby may have colic if they:

  • Cry intensely for 3 hours or more a day, on at least 3 days a week
  • Have crying episodes mostly in the late afternoon or evening
  • Are otherwise healthy and feeding and growing well between episodes

Common signs during a colic episode include:

  • Frowning or grimacing
  • Red or flushed face
  • Pulling legs up toward the tummy, as if in pain
  • Arching the back and stiffening the legs
  • Loud, high-pitched, prolonged crying
  • Loud tummy rumbling or gurgling
  • Passing gas or stool around the time the crying stops (this may be coincidental)
  • Inconsolable crying despite feeding, changing, and cuddling

If your baby has a fever, is not feeding well, seems unusually sleepy, has vomiting, diarrhea, or any other concerning symptoms, contact your Grand Rapids pediatrician or urgent care right away. Not all crying is colic—serious illnesses must be ruled out.

What Causes Colic?

Despite extensive research, the exact cause of colic is still unknown. It is important to remember:

  • Colic is not your fault.
  • It is not caused by “bad” parenting or a lack of love.
  • Stress in parents does not cause colic, though colic can certainly increase stress.

Some possible contributing factors include:

1. Maternal Diet (for Breastfed Babies)

Certain foods in a breastfeeding mother’s diet may contribute to colic-like symptoms in some babies, possibly due to food intolerance or sensitivity. Some studies have suggested that the following may trigger symptoms in some infants:

  • Cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli
  • Onions and garlic
  • Chocolate
  • Cow’s milk and dairy products

Caffeine and nicotine can also affect babies:

  • Caffeine (from coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks, chocolate) can make some babies more irritable.
  • Nicotine from smoking or vaping can pass into breast milk and may worsen fussiness and irritability, and it also poses other serious health risks.

If you suspect your diet may be affecting your baby, do not make major changes on your own. Talk with your doctor or a lactation consultant at a Grand Rapids hospital (such as Spectrum Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids) to ensure both you and your baby continue to get proper nutrition.

2. Digestive Sensitivity and Fullness

Some babies may:

  • Be more sensitive to normal gas and fullness in the stomach or intestines
  • Interpret these sensations as painful or alarming
  • Have immature digestive systems that are still adjusting to feeding

3. General Immaturity and Adjustment to Life Outside the Womb

Newborns spend nine months in a calm, warm, dark environment. It can take several months for some babies to adjust to:

  • New sounds (including loud winter storms or city noise in Grand Rapids)
  • Lights
  • Temperature changes (especially Michigan’s cold winters and dry indoor air)
  • Handling and stimulation

This general immaturity of the nervous system may play a role in colic.

Medication and Colic

There is no proven medicine that cures colic. In most cases, colic:

  • Gets better on its own, often quite suddenly
  • Resolves by about 3–4 months of age, whether or not medications are used

Medications sometimes used for colic can:

  • Make babies very sleepy, which can be dangerous
  • Have side effects without clear benefit

Always talk with your pediatrician before giving any medication or over-the-counter product to your baby.

Gripe Water

“Gripe water” is a common term for liquid products that claim to:

  • Reduce gas
  • Aid digestion
  • Soothe colic

Important points:

  • Formulas vary widely and may contain herbs or other ingredients.
  • There is no strong scientific evidence that gripe water improves colic.
  • Some products may not be appropriate or safe for young infants.

Only use gripe water or similar products after discussing them with your baby’s doctor in Grand Rapids.

Diet Changes and Colic

Dietary changes may help in specific situations:

Lactose Intolerance or Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy

A small number of babies with colic may have:

  • Lactose intolerance
  • Cow’s milk protein allergy

In these cases, your pediatrician may recommend:

  • A trial of removing cow’s milk and dairy from the breastfeeding mother’s diet
  • Switching the baby to a special hypoallergenic formula (if formula-fed)

These changes should only be made:

  • Under medical guidance
  • With support from a pediatrician or dietitian to ensure proper nutrition for both mother and baby

Reducing Caffeine

It may be helpful for breastfeeding mothers to:

  • Reduce or avoid coffee, tea, cola, energy drinks, and other high-caffeine foods and beverages
  • Remember that brewed coffee and energy drinks often contain particularly high levels of caffeine

Probiotics (“Good” Bacteria)

There has been interest in “good” bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus:

  • Some infant formulas now include added probiotics.
  • Breastfed babies usually receive beneficial bacteria naturally.
  • Research has not clearly shown that probiotics significantly improve colic in most babies.

Discuss probiotic use with your baby’s doctor before starting any supplement.

Diagnosing Colic in Grand Rapids

There is no specific test for colic. Diagnosis is based on:

  • Your baby’s symptoms
  • A physical examination
  • Ruling out other causes of crying (such as infection, reflux, or injury)

A Grand Rapids pediatrician or family doctor will:

  • Check your baby’s weight, growth, and overall health
  • Review feeding patterns and stooling
  • Look for any signs of illness that need treatment

Once other causes are ruled out, ongoing crying is more likely to be colic.

How to Help a Crying Baby with Colic

While you may not be able to stop every crying episode, there are many ways to comfort your baby and make colic easier to manage.

1. Respond Quickly

  • Pick up and comfort your baby when they cry.
  • Quick responses do not “spoil” a young baby; instead, they help them feel secure.
  • Babies who are responded to promptly may cry less over time.

2. Use a “C” or Flexed Position

Crying babies often:

  • Arch their backs
  • Stiffen their legs

You can try:

  • Holding your baby curled in a “C” or flexed position (tummy against your chest, knees gently bent)
  • Supporting their head and neck while gently holding them close

This position may help them feel more secure and reduce discomfort.

3. Check for Basic Comfort

Make sure your baby:

  • Is not too hot or too cold (especially important in Michigan’s winter months)
  • Has a clean diaper
  • Is not hungry
  • Is dressed in soft, comfortable clothing

4. Swaddling

  • Wrapping your baby snugly in a light cotton blanket can be calming.
  • Ensure the swaddle is not too tight and that hips and legs can move freely.
  • Swaddling should be stopped once your baby shows signs of rolling.

5. Sucking

Many babies soothe themselves by sucking:

  • Offer the breast if breastfeeding is going well.
  • Once your milk supply is established, a pacifier (dummy) can be helpful.

6. Gentle Patting and Rocking

  • Gentle, rhythmic patting on the back or bottom can help soothe some babies.
  • A rocking chair or glider can be very helpful during long evenings.
  • Avoid overly vigorous bouncing or jiggling.

7. Adjust Lighting and Noise

  • Soft, dim lighting can be calming, especially in the evening.
  • Some babies are distressed by harsh lights or loud noises.
  • Soft music, white noise, or rhythmic sounds (like a fan or a ticking clock) may help.

8. Baby Slings and Carriers

  • Wearing your baby in a sling or carrier can provide close contact and comfort.
  • Make sure the carrier is used safely and supports your baby’s head and neck.

9. Baths and Massage

  • A warm (not hot) bath and gentle baby massage can relax some infants.
  • These methods often work best before your baby becomes very upset, not in the middle of a severe crying spell.

10. Walks and Car Rides

  • A walk in a stroller or baby carrier can help, even in colder Grand Rapids weather—just dress your baby warmly and protect them from wind and snow.
  • Many babies calm down during a car ride due to the motion and sound.
  • Only drive if you are calm enough to do so safely.

Sometimes, after trying everything, your baby may still cry. In that case, simply holding them calmly can still be helpful. Your baby can sense your presence and comfort, even if the crying continues.

Managing Your Own Stress as a Parent

Caring for a colicky baby is exhausting and emotionally draining. In Grand Rapids, especially during long winter evenings when you may feel more isolated indoors, it’s important to protect your own mental health.

If you feel overwhelmed:

  • Put your baby in a safe place, such as a crib or bassinet.
  • Step into another room for a few minutes to calm yourself.
  • Take slow, deep breaths.
  • Drop your shoulders, unclench your fists, and gently stretch your back, arms, and legs.
  • Have a drink of water or another non-alcoholic beverage and a light snack if you can.

Never shake a baby. If you feel close to losing control, place your baby safely in the crib and step away, then call someone you trust or a helpline.

Coping Strategies for Grand Rapids Families

While your baby is colicky, it helps to plan how you will cope:

  • Take turns with a partner, if you have one. Trade off caring for the baby so each of you can rest or get outside for a break.
  • Use support from friends and family.
    • Ask them to hold your baby while they are crying so you can shower, nap, or step outside.
    • Even short breaks can make a big difference.
  • Distract yourself when “off duty.”
    • Listen to music (headphones can help block out some of the crying).
    • Watch a show, read, or do something that feels relaxing.
  • Talk with other parents.
    • Many parents in Grand Rapids have gone through colic and can share what helped them.
    • Consider local parent groups, church communities, or neighborhood groups.

Remember: Colic is temporary. It almost always improves by 3–4 months of age.

Local Resources for Colic Support in Grand Rapids, MI

If you’re concerned about your baby’s crying or your own stress, reach out for help. Local resources include:

Medical Care

  • Your pediatrician or family doctor
    • Many families in Grand Rapids receive care through Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health pediatric clinics.
  • Urgent care or emergency department
    • If you are worried your baby may be ill, especially with fever, poor feeding, lethargy, or breathing problems, seek urgent medical care.

Public Health and Community Support

  • Kent County Health Department
    • Offers maternal and child health programs, breastfeeding support, and parenting resources.
    • Website: search “Kent County Health Department maternal child health.”
  • Grand Rapids Public Health and local clinics
    • Community health centers may offer parenting support, lactation counseling, and social work services.

Nurse Advice Lines & Parent Support

  • Many health systems in Grand Rapids have 24/7 nurse advice lines for patients. Check the number on your insurance card or your child’s clinic website.
  • Postpartum support groups and parenting classes are often available through:
    • Spectrum Health
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Local churches and community centers

If you ever feel you might hurt yourself or your baby, seek immediate help:

  • Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
  • Go to the nearest emergency department

Key Takeaways About Colic

  • Colic is common and affects about one in three babies.
  • The cause is unknown, though factors like immature digestion, sensitivity to gas, and maternal diet may play a role.
  • Colic usually stops on its own after a few weeks to months, often by 3–4 months of age.
  • Your baby recovers fully and is generally healthy in the long term.
  • Do not blame yourself or other caregivers—colic is not caused by “stressed” or “bad” parenting.
  • Have your baby checked by a doctor to rule out other causes of crying.
  • Use soothing techniques like holding, swaddling, gentle rocking, and walks, but accept that sometimes nothing will work—and that is not your fault.
  • Look after your own well-being and use local Grand Rapids resources, family, and friends for support.

Colic can make the early months of parenting in Grand Rapids feel especially hard, but it is temporary. With medical guidance, practical soothing strategies, and emotional support, most families get through this period and go on to enjoy calmer, happier days with their baby.