Why Does My Baby Cry For Hours?

It might be colic...

Many people, especially new moms, are not aware of colic in babies until they experience it firsthand. Colic can be challenging for parents as it may cause fatigue, sleepless nights, and frustration. Also called "infantile colic" by medical practitioners, the cause of colic is unknown even to this day. In this blog, we will learn more about colic, ways to determine if your baby is experiencing it and what you can do to soothe and comfort them.

Colic is...

Colic is described as inconsolably excessive crying that lasts for more than 3 hours a day and occurs for three or more days a week. Colic commonly starts at six weeks and declines at about 4 to 6 months of age. It is accompanied by fussiness, facial flushing, drawing up of legs, irritability, and the child can be restless as they may be experiencing mild pain. These symptoms happened despite that the baby is well-fed. As observed, it usually occurs in the early evenings.

Other symptoms include intense crying that is more like screaming, crying for no reason even after feeding or diaper change, clenched fist, and further observed body tensions such as the arched back, stiffened arms, and tense abdomen. There is no exception in colic; most babies experience breastfed or formula-fed, a premie or a full term. But as per research, there is a higher risk in babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy or after delivery. Excessive crying may also lead to more air being swallowed and can cause gassiness.

Colic is not dangerous for your little one, but it can affect your family. It can increase stress among parents, higher risk of postpartum depression, early cessation of breastfeeding, experiencing exhaustion, helplessness, and fatigue. The shaken baby syndrome can also occur due to parents' stress in calming their baby and can be life-threatening.

Ways of calming a colicky baby

Pacifier. Giving your baby a pacifier can be a helpful tool to calm them. Many parents are hesitant to give their babies as it may cause dental issues. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the risk is minimal in children younger than three.

Swaddling or wrapping. Swaddling creates a cozy womb-like feeling that provides comfort to babies. Most parents say that swaddling helps their babies soothe and sleep longer.

Carrying your little one. Carrying your baby can bring them comfort as they can feel your warmth being close to them. You may use a safe sling wrap or a carrier to do this.

Tummy time. You can lay your baby in their tummy across your lap. Then gently rub your baby's back. This action can help soothe and provide comfort to your little one and can help ease gas. Remember to do this only under adult supervision and assist your baby's head as they may still have difficulty controlling it. This position can help your baby strengthen their shoulder and neck muscles.

Using a baby swing. Repetitive motions such as rocking or putting your baby in a swing can help them soothe and settle down.

Holding your baby upright after feeding. We all know that this is the required position to help burp your little one. This position can also be helpful if your baby has GERD or Gastro-Esophageal Reflux, which can contribute to colic. The upright position can prevent acid reflux symptoms that often cause discomfort to babies with GERD.

Baby belly bands. Using a baby belly band is an age-old practice of reducing baby colic symptoms of gas and general fussiness by simply wrapping a cloth, band, or abdominal binder around the baby's waist and tummy, adding some pressure and warmth. MEMEENO made a newer version of traditional baby belly bands, making them more convenient. It has velcro straps to snug it to your baby's tummy easily and is made of soft layers of organic cotton with fleece lining. They also come in different modern, stylish designs that can be matched with a baby hat and swaddle. It is non-invasive, safe, and organic. No gas drops, gripe water, or probiotics are needed.

Warm baths. Warm water provides comfort and a natural reliever of pain. Be sure to check the water temperature before bathing your little one. The recommended temperature for babies is 98.6°F (between 37°C and 38°C.) Use a mild, gentle, and safe soap for your baby's skin that is free from parabens and fragrances. Go for an all-natural olive oil soap by MEMEENO.

Baby Massages. Massaging your little one after a warm bath can help calm them and facilitate digestion. Take a small amount of baby oil, rub them in your palms to make it warm, then gently massage your baby's tummy in a circular motion. Go for MEMEENO's baby massage oilwhich is specially formulated for babies. Made of all-natural ingredients, including Sunflower seed oil, Jojoba oil, Coconut oil, Grapeseed oil, Sesame oil, Rosemary oil, and Vitamin E. Keep your baby's skin silky smooth and moisturized most naturally and safely. For steps on baby massage, see Using MEMEENO Baby Massage Oil.


If you feel that your baby's milk causes colic, it can be an excellent time to switch formulas or make changes in your diet if you are breastfeeding. It is best to talk to a pediatrician about this. If you feel that there is a more severe condition that causes your baby's extensive cries, seek medical help.

 A Very Special Gift for a Newborn

The MEMEENO band helps soothe and calm your baby in a safe, stylish, and effective way. It keeps your baby’s tummy warm and protected. The band also helps ease colic, tummy aches, gas, and general fussiness. When baby's calm, mama's calm and everyone can get back to the cuddles and snuggles

Add your baby's name to your baby belly band to make it more special!