Colic and reflux can feel like dreaded words for new parents. Many mums and dads find themselves worrying if — or when — their baby might experience them, especially as both seem increasingly common.
The good news? Not all babies experience colic or reflux, so it may never be something you need to navigate.
Colic and reflux are also often spoken about interchangeably because symptoms can overlap. Below, I’ll explain what colic and reflux actually are, why they happen, and share some gentle, naturopathic approaches that may help support your baby.
What Is Colic and What Is Reflux?
Baby Colic Explained
Colic remains somewhat mysterious because there is no single confirmed cause. Colic is usually described as prolonged periods of crying in an otherwise healthy baby and may sometimes be associated with digestive discomfort.
Possible contributing factors may include:
- Reflux
- Trapped wind or gas
- Constipation
- Food sensitivities or allergies
- An immature digestive system
- Overstimulation or nervous system immaturity
Colic often presents as intense, inconsolable crying, commonly in the late afternoon or evening.
Infant Reflux Explained
Reflux happens when milk and stomach contents flow back up into the oesophagus (food pipe). This is very common in babies because their digestive systems are still developing.
Symptoms may include:
- Frequent posseting or vomiting after feeds
- Arching of the back during or after feeding
- Fussiness during feeds
- Hiccups or coughing
- Seeming uncomfortable when lying flat
- Unsettled behaviour after feeding
Some reflux is considered normal in babies and improves naturally as they grow.
Why the Digestive System Plays a Big Role
The digestive system relies heavily on smooth muscle and coordinated movement to move food through the body.
This movement is called peristalsis — rhythmic muscle contractions that help move milk and food through the digestive tract.
In newborns, these systems are still maturing.
Reflux and Muscle Immaturity
With reflux, the circular muscle at the base of the oesophagus (called the lower oesophageal sphincter) is often still developing and may not close as effectively as it will later on.
This means milk can more easily travel back upwards, leading to posseting, vomiting, or discomfort.
Colic and Gut Development
With colic, the picture is less clear, but immature digestion may play a role.
As babies adjust to digesting milk independently after birth, they can experience:
- Trapped wind
- Bloating
- Changes in bowel habits
- Increased sensitivity to normal digestive sensations
Before birth, nutrients arrive via the placenta. After birth, babies suddenly need to coordinate sucking, swallowing, digestion, and bowel movements themselves — which is a lot of learning for a tiny body.
As babies grow, digestion often becomes smoother and symptoms improve.
Food Allergy vs Food Intolerance in Babies
Food allergies usually cause more immediate reactions and may include:
- Swelling around the mouth or face
- Hives or rashes
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Breathing difficulties (seek urgent medical attention)
Food sensitivities or intolerances can be more subtle and may present with symptoms such as:
- Eczema
- Altered bowel habits
- Increased wind
- Mucus in stools
- Digestive discomfort
If you suspect either an allergy or intolerance, it’s important to speak with your GP or healthcare professional before making major dietary changes.
Reflux Isn’t Always About “Too Much Acid”
Reflux is often blamed on excess stomach acid, but in babies it’s more commonly linked to the mechanics of digestion and the immaturity of the digestive system.
If you’re breastfeeding, feeding mechanics can sometimes contribute too.
Signs that feeding support may help include:
- Clicking noises during feeds
- Painful feeding
- Frequent unlatching
- Very gassy feeds
- Lipstick-shaped nipples after feeds
Support from a trained breastfeeding supporter, lactation consultant, or appropriately trained healthcare professional can make a huge difference.
C-Section Babies, Colic and Reflux
Some babies born via caesarean birth may experience more digestive symptoms early on, although every baby is different.
Some families find supportive therapies such as infant osteopathy or cranial osteopathy helpful, particularly if feeding or body tension seem to be contributing factors.
Others choose to explore probiotics. Research around probiotics in infants is still evolving, so it’s worth discussing options with a qualified health professional first.
Gentle Ways to Support Colic and Reflux Naturally
While colic and reflux can feel overwhelming, they are usually temporary phases while your baby’s digestive and nervous systems mature.
If you’re concerned about your baby, always seek advice from your GP, midwife, health visitor, or another qualified professional.
1. Try to Stay as Calm as Possible
This is much easier said than done.
Babies are sensitive to their environment and caregiving interactions. Looking after yourself matters too — and support for you is support for your baby.
2. Consider Bodywork Support
Some parents find infant osteopathy or cranial osteopathy helpful, particularly when babies seem uncomfortable, tense, or unsettled.
Always choose someone qualified and experienced in working with babies.
3. Use a Baby Sling
Holding babies upright after feeds can sometimes reduce reflux symptoms and may help trapped wind move more easily.
Many parents also find babywearing helpful because it keeps babies close while allowing hands-free movement.
4. Try Gentle Tummy Massage
Gentle clockwise circles on your baby’s tummy may support relaxation and comfort.
Use very light pressure — imagine the pressure you’d use to check whether an avocado is ripe.
For babies with reflux, this can be done upright or slightly reclined.
5. Reduce Swallowed Air
If breastfeeding:
- Listen for clicking noises
- Check feeds feel comfortable
- Seek support if feeding feels painful
If bottle feeding:
- Try paced feeding
- Pause regularly for winding
- Check teat flow is appropriate
Reducing swallowed air may help reduce discomfort.
6. Consider Digestive-Supportive Herbal Teas for Breastfeeding Mums
If breastfeeding, some parents enjoy teas traditionally used to support digestion, such as:
- Peppermint (use cautiously as large amounts may affect milk supply in some people)
- Ginger
- Fennel
- Liquorice (avoid if advised against during pregnancy or for certain medical conditions)
Final Reassurance
Colic and reflux are incredibly common and, for many babies, improve naturally with time.
You’re not doing anything wrong.
Support is available, your instincts matter, and this phase will not last forever — even if it feels endless right now.
