If your newborn is crying excessively, arching their back, or pulling their legs to their chest, they may be struggling with gas or colic. These common newborn discomforts can be exhausting for both baby and parents, but the good news is—there are ways to help!
This guide will help you understand why newborns get gassy, how to tell the difference between gas and colic, and practical ways to soothe your baby.
Why Are Newborns So Gassy?
Newborns have immature digestive systems, which means they:
✔️ Swallow a lot of air while feeding or crying
✔️ Struggle to pass gas efficiently
✔️ Experience rapid digestive changes
📌 Common Causes of Newborn Gas:
- Feeding too quickly or too slowly (air gets trapped)
- Improper latch during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding
- Digesting new foods through breast milk
- Underdeveloped gut bacteria
💡 Related Post: Newborn Feeding: How Often & How Much Should Your Baby Eat?
Gas vs. Colic: How to Tell the Difference
While gas pain is temporary and relieved when baby burps or passes gas, colic is defined by excessive crying that lasts longer than 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks.
📌 Signs It’s Just Gas:
✔️ Crying peaks after feeding but improves after passing gas
✔️ Frequent burping or farting
✔️ Stomach bloating or firm belly
📌 Signs of Colic:
❌ Intense, inconsolable crying (same time each day)
❌ Baby arches back, clenches fists, and turns red
❌ Nothing soothes them (even after feeding, burping, and diaper changes)
💡 Related Post: Newborn Sleep 101: What to Expect & How to Get More Rest (Since overtired babies cry more!)
How to Relieve Gas in a Newborn
1. Use Effective Burping Techniques
Burping helps release trapped air, but some methods work better than others. Try these:
🍼 Over-the-Shoulder: Hold baby upright and gently pat their back.
🤲 Seated Position: Sit baby on your lap, support their head, and rub their back in circular motions.
🚼 Laying Across Lap: Lay baby belly-down across your lap and pat their back gently.
2. Try the “Bicycle Legs” Trick
🚴♂️ Lay baby on their back and gently move their legs in a cycling motion to encourage gas release.
3. Use the “I Love U” Tummy Massage
👐 Gently rub baby’s belly in a clockwise motion following the shape of an “I,” “L,” and “U.”
4. Check the Feeding Position
✔️ Keep baby semi-upright while feeding to minimize air intake.
✔️ If bottle-feeding, use a slow-flow nipple to reduce gulping.
💡 Related Post: How to Handle Cluster Feeding & Growth Spurts
Colic Relief: What Actually Works?
Colic can feel overwhelming, but many babies improve by 3-4 months. In the meantime, try:
1. The 5 S’s Method (Dr. Harvey Karp’s Technique)
✔️ Swaddle baby snugly for security
✔️ Side/Stomach Position (ONLY when awake and supervised)
✔️ Shushing (white noise or heartbeat sounds)
✔️ Swinging (gentle bouncing or rocking)
✔️ Sucking (pacifier or nursing for comfort)
2. Try a Warm Bath
💦 Warm water relaxes tight stomach muscles and promotes digestion.
3. Consider Probiotics
Some research suggests that infant probiotics may help balance gut bacteria and reduce colic symptoms. Check with your pediatrician before use.
📌 Related Post: Co-Sleeping: The Controversy & What the Research Actually Says
When to Call the Pediatrician
Gas and colic are usually harmless, but some symptoms require medical attention.
🚩 Call Your Doctor If Your Baby:
❌ Has a hard, distended belly
❌ Cries for hours without relief
❌ Has bloody stools or persistent vomiting
❌ Seems lethargic or refuses to eat
If something feels off, always trust your instincts!
💡 Related Post: Warning Signs in Pregnancy You Should Never Ignore
Final Thoughts: Trust the Process
Newborn gas and colic can be frustrating, but remember—it’s temporary.
✔️ Burping, tummy massages, and gentle movement can make a huge difference.
✔️ If colic symptoms persist, talk to your pediatrician for guidance.
For personalized newborn support, check out Birthify’s expert-led resources to make these early weeks smoother!