Colic Baby Will Only Sleep on Stomach

1.Introduction

Many parents feel helpless when their colic baby will only sleep on stomach. It’s heartbreaking to see your baby cry from gas or tummy pain and only settle in a position that feels risky. While stomach sleeping may seem to bring quick relief, it’s not considered safe for unsupervised sleep. In this post, we’ll explore why babies with colic prefer this position—and share safer, comforting ways to help them sleep better through the night.

2.Understanding Colic in Babies

Colic is a hard time for parents to deal with. If you’re holding a crying baby night after night and thinking, My colic baby will only sleep on stomach, you’re not alone. To manage this phase safely and calmly, it helps to understand what colic is, how it affects your baby’s sleep, and what signs to look for.

What Is Colic?

Colic means a healthy baby cries a lot without a clear reason. It is not a disease or illness, but a temporary phase. Doctors define colic by something called the Rule of 3:

The baby keeps crying for more than three hours each day
For at least 3 days a week
And this lasts for more than 3 weeks

The crying usually happens in the evening or night and can be very intense. Nothing seems to help, and parents often feel helpless and tired.

Common Signs of Colic

It’s important to know the signs of colic so you can recognize it early and respond with care.
Here are some common symptoms:

Baby clenches their fists while crying
Pulls legs toward the tummy or stiffens the body
Arches the back during crying episodes
Has a red, tense face from crying too hard
Passes gas or burps often after crying
Crying seems to come at the same time every day, usually in the evening

Your baby may look like they’re in pain, but colic is not harmful. Most colicky babies are still growing and feeding well.

When Does Colic Start and End?

Colic usually starts when the baby is around 2 to 3 weeks old. In most babies, crying is worst at 6 weeks and then slowly gets better. By the time your baby is 3 to 4 months old, the colic usually goes away on its own.

3.How Does Colic Affect a Baby’s Sleep?

Colic is a common condition in newborns, usually characterized by frequent, intense crying in an otherwise healthy baby. These episodes often occur for no clear reason and typically begin around 2 to 3 weeks of age. Colic makes it hard for babies to rest well, and it also leaves parents feeling very tired. Let’s look at how colic affects baby sleep more closely.

Colicky babies have trouble calming down and sleeping well

Colicky babies find it hard to relax because they often feel uneasy or in pain. Their bodies may tense up, and they may cry uncontrollably for long periods. This restlessness makes it difficult for them to fall asleep or stay asleep for long stretches. Even if they do drift off, they are likely to wake frequently.

Crying episodes are worse at night, making sleep fragmented

Colic symptoms tend to peak in the late afternoon or evening—just when parents are winding down. During these hours, babies may cry more intensely and for longer periods. These evening crying spells often lead to fragmented sleep, as the baby wakes up frequently or never settles into deep sleep at all.

Discomfort from gas or bloating can keep them from sleeping on their backs

Gas and bloating are common in colicky babies, and the pressure in the abdomen can make lying on the back uncomfortable. Although back-sleeping is the safest position to reduce the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), the discomfort from colic may cause a baby to squirm, fuss, or wake up more often when placed in that position.

4.Why a Colic Baby May Prefer Stomach Sleeping

Taking care of a colicky baby is hard, especially when nothing helps to calm them. One thing many parents notice is that their baby settles more easily when lying on their stomach — especially during tummy time or while being held. But why does this position seem to help? Let’s gently break down the reasons:

Pressure on the tummy helps ease gas pain or bloating

Babies with colic often struggle with gas. Their digestive system is still developing, and trapped air can cause painful bloating. When a baby lies on their tummy — especially across your lap, arm, or chest — the light pressure on their belly can bring relief. This gentle pressure helps:

Move gas through the digestive tract
Reduce tummy tension
Ease overall discomfort

That’s why your baby might stop crying or seem calmer when they’re resting on their stomach while awake and supervised.

Stomach position may calm the Moro reflex (startle response)

Newborns have something called the Moro reflex, where they suddenly flail their arms or legs when startled — even in their sleep. This can wake them up or make them feel unsettled. When lying on their stomach, especially on your chest or arm, your baby’s limbs are tucked in and supported. It lowers sudden body jerks and makes your baby feel safe and calm. For a colicky baby, this added calm can make a big difference.

May mimic womb-like pressure or being held on your chest

Before birth, your baby lived in a snug, warm, and gently moving space — the womb. The stomach-lying position, especially during skin-to-skin contact, can remind them of that safe, cozy environment. Lying on your chest:

They hear your heartbeat
They feel your warmth
They’re surrounded by gentle pressure

All of this can comfort a colicky baby who’s having a hard time adjusting to the outside world. It’s not just physical relief — it’s emotional reassurance too.

5.Is Stomach Sleeping Safe for Babies?

When your baby is struggling to sleep—especially if they have gas, reflux, or colic—it’s only natural to wonder if a different sleeping position might help. You might have heard that some babies seem to settle better on their stomachs. But before you try that, it’s important to understand what the experts say about stomach sleeping. Let’s look more closely at the truth.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says no to this

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) clearly advises that babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep—for both naps and nighttime sleep. This guideline applies to all babies under 1 year old, unless your pediatrician gives you special instructions for a medical condition. Why? Sleeping on the back is the safest way for babies, as studies have shown.

Stomach sleeping increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Placing a baby on their stomach to sleep can be dangerous, especially for newborns who cannot yet roll over on their own. Research shows that stomach sleeping is linked to a higher risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)—a sudden, unexplained death of an otherwise healthy baby during sleep. Here’s why stomach sleeping is risky.

Babies may breathe in their own exhaled air, leading to lower oxygen levels.
Their nose and mouth may press against the mattress, making breathing difficult.
Sleeping on the stomach can make a baby too warm, which may raise the risk of SIDS.

Because of these dangers, medical experts agree stomach sleeping is not safe.

Safe sleep on the back, firm mattress, no soft bedding or toys

A safe sleep environment is simple, but essential. Here’s what it should include:

Back sleeping for all naps and overnight sleep
Put baby on flat, firm bed in a safe crib
No soft items in the crib—this means no pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, or bumpers
A fitted sheet only—clean and snug
Baby dressed in light clothing to avoid overheating

Keeping the crib clear and placing your baby on their back can greatly reduce the risks during sleep.

Back sleeping is safest, even for colicky or reflux-prone babies

It might feel like stomach sleeping is the only thing that helps a baby with colic or reflux feel better. But even in those situations, the back-sleeping position is still safest. If your baby is struggling to settle, try these safer options:

Hold your baby upright after feeding for 20–30 minutes
Try tummy time during the day to relieve gas (always supervised)
Use gentle rocking or white noise for soothing
Swaddle your baby (if they are not rolling over yet) to reduce startle reflex
Practice skin-to-skin contact during awake times for extra comfort

These methods can help comfort your baby—without putting them at risk during sleep.

6.Ways to calm a colicky baby and help them sleep at night

Looking after a colicky baby is very hard, mostly at night. When your baby is crying for hours and struggling to settle, it’s natural to feel exhausted and helpless. The good news? There are gentle, safe, and effective ways to help a colicky baby sleep better. Let’s go through some tried-and-true techniques that can bring relief—for both your baby and you.

Worried about baby sleeping on arm circulation? Learn the signs, safety tips, and when to act if your baby’s sleep position affects blood flow. Click here for full guidance.

Swaddling (for Non-Rolling Babies)

Swaddling helps your baby feel secure, warm, and comforted—just like they did in the womb. It also helps reduce the startle reflex that can wake them up suddenly. Only swaddle if your baby hasn’t started rolling yet. Put your baby on their back to sleep, not on side or tummy.

White Noise Machines to Mimic Womb Sounds

Your baby spent nine months surrounded by constant sound—heartbeat, blood flow, and muffled voices. White noise mimics that familiar environment and helps:

Calm an overstimulated baby
Block out household noise
Encourage deeper, longer sleep

Choose a soft, steady sound (like rain, a fan, or heartbeat) and place it at a safe distance.

Warm Baths Before Bed to Relax Muscles

A soothing warm bath can help your baby unwind before sleep. Warm water relaxes tight muscles, calms the nervous system, and signals bedtime. Tips:

Keep the bath short (5–10 minutes)
Use warm—not hot—water
Follow up with a gentle massage or cuddle

Burping After Every Feed to Reduce Gas

Trapped gas is a common reason colicky babies cry at night. Burping helps release that air, easing pressure in their little tummies. Try burping

Mid-feed and after feed
Using different positions (over the shoulder, sitting upright, or tummy-down on your arm)

Babywearing or Gentle Rocking Before Sleep

Wearing your baby in a soft carrier or gently rocking them in your arms gives comfort and mimics the movement they felt before birth. Benefits

Helps reduce crying
Strengthens parent-baby bonding
Soothes colic symptoms naturally

Once baby is calm, transfer them to their crib while still drowsy but awake.

Use of Pacifier (Linked to Reduced SIDS Risk)

A pacifier can do more than soothe—it’s also associated with a lower risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It helps

Calm fussiness
Satisfy your baby’s natural sucking reflex
Encourage sleep

If your baby doesn’t want it, don’t force it. But if they accept it, it’s a safe tool for bedtime.

Holding Baby Upright After Feeding for 20–30 Minutes

Keep your baby upright for 20–30 mins after a feed. This helps with

Digestion
Reducing reflux and spit-up
Making it easier to fall asleep comfortably

Try holding your baby against your chest or shoulder during this time.

7.Safe Sleep Positions for Colic Relief

If your baby has colic, you already know how difficult sleep can be—for your little one and for you. The constant crying, gas discomfort, and restlessness make it tempting to try any position that seems to bring relief. But while comfort is important, sleep safety should always come first. Here are safe and doctor-recommended ways to help relieve colic without risking your baby’s health during sleep.

Best Sleep Position On the Back (Even if Colicky)

Even if baby is fussy or gassy, the safest sleep is flat on the back, says AAP

Always put your baby to sleep on their back, for both naps and nighttime sleep.
This helps lower the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Even for babies with colic or reflux, back sleeping is still considered the safest option.

You can use other comforting techniques (like rocking, swaddling, or soothing sounds), but when it’s time for sleep—back is best.

Try Side-Lying Position Only While Holding and Awake

Some babies seem more comfortable in a side-lying position, especially when dealing with gas or tummy discomfort. While this can help with calming your baby, it should never be used as a sleep position unless your baby is fully awake and supervised. Only try side-lying

When you’re awake and holding your baby
During cuddle time or while feeding
To help calm them before placing them down safely on their back

When baby gets sleepy, place them on their back in the crib.

Use Tummy Time During the Day (Supervised Only)

Tummy time is a great way to help with digestion and gas release during the day. While your baby is awake and you’re watching, short sessions on their tummy can help

Strengthen neck, shoulders, and tummy muscles
Ease colic symptoms by encouraging gas to move
Prevent flat spots from too much back sleeping

Start with a few minutes at a time, especially after a diaper change or before a nap—but never use tummy time for sleep.

Consider Crib Wedge/Incline Only with Doctor’s Approval

Some parents consider elevating the crib slightly or using a wedge to help their baby with reflux or gas. However, this should only be done if your doctor recommends it. Why? Because

An incorrect angle can cause your baby to slide into an unsafe position
It can increase the risk of airway blockage or SIDS
Most pediatricians still recommend a flat and firm surface, even for reflux

If you think elevation might help, talk to your pediatrician first before making any adjustments to your baby’s sleep setup.

8.What NOT to Do: Unsafe Sleep Habits to Avoid for Babies

When your baby is dealing with colic, reflux, or just restless sleep, it’s natural to try anything that might help. But in your effort to soothe and comfort, it’s important not to compromise on sleep safety. Some sleep practices may seem helpful in the moment—but they can actually put your baby at serious risk. To keep your little one safe while they rest, here are the most important sleep habits to avoid—no matter how tired or desperate you may feel.

Never Place Baby on Tummy for Sleep—Not Even for Naps

It may seem like your baby settles better on their stomach, especially when dealing with gas or fussiness. Tummy sleeping is not safe for babies. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), tummy sleeping increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Even if your baby naps more peacefully this way

It is not safe for sleep
Do tummy time only when baby is awake and supervised
Always place baby on their back to sleep

No Inclined Sleepers, Soft Bedding, or Blankets

Babies need a firm, flat surface to sleep safely. Products like inclined sleepers, loungers, or bouncers are not safe for overnight or unsupervised sleep—even if your baby dozes off in them. Also avoid placing the following in your baby’s crib or bassinet

Blankets
Pillows
Stuffed animals
Sleep positioners
Bumper pads

Soft items can block your baby’s airway or cause overheating, both of which are major risk factors for SIDS. Use only a fitted sheet and place baby on their back to sleep.

Don’t Co-Sleep on Sofas or Recliners

Falling asleep with your baby in your arms on a couch, chair, or recliner can be very dangerous. Why? Because

Babies can slip into crevices or soft cushions
Your arm or body may accidentally block their breathing
You might roll over or shift in your sleep without realizing it

If you feel sleepy, always place your baby in a safe sleep space first—even if just for a short nap.

Avoid Letting Exhausted Parents Fall Asleep While Holding Baby

We know how exhausting those nights can get—especially when your baby won’t settle unless held. But as tempting as it is to sit and hold your baby just for a minute, falling asleep while holding them is risky, even in a bed or chair. If you feel like you’re about to doze off

Gently lay baby down in the crib or bassinet
Ask for help from a partner, family member, or friend
Take turns during night shifts to reduce burnout

Your baby is safest when sleeping in their own space—on their back, in a crib or bassinet, near your bed but never in your arms while you’re asleep.

9.When to Talk to a Pediatrician

Caring for a baby who cries a lot or struggles to sleep can be overwhelming. While many newborns go through fussy phases, there are times when a doctor’s advice becomes necessary. If your baby shows any of the signs below, it may be time to reach out to your pediatrician for guidance and support.

Colic Lasts Beyond 4 Months

Colic often starts within the first few weeks of life and usually improves by the time your baby is 3 to 4 months old. If your baby

Is still crying for long periods each day
Has trouble calming down
Shows no signs of relief after 4 months

…it could mean something more than typical colic. Your doctor can help identify if another issue like digestive discomfort or food sensitivity is involved.

Baby Cries at Night and Refuses to Sleep on Back

Some babies cry more in the evening, but if your baby

Cries mostly at night
Struggles every time you place them on their back
Only feels calm when upright or in your arms

it could be a sign of infant reflux, gas pain, or another sleep-related issue. Since back-sleeping is the safest sleep position, a pediatrician can help you find safe ways to make your baby more comfortable while still following sleep safety guidelines.

Suspected Reflux, Milk Allergy, or Other Issues

Your baby may be showing signs of more than just fussiness. Watch for

Frequent spit-up or signs of discomfort during/after feeding
Rashes, mucus in stool, or signs of milk protein allergy
Excessive gas, bloating, or feeding refusal

If any of these symptoms appear, your pediatrician can assess whether your baby might have reflux, cow’s milk allergy, or another medical condition — and suggest the best course of action.

Pediatrician May Suggest Adjustments

After evaluating your baby, the pediatrician might recommend

A change in formula (such as hypoallergenic or lactose-free)
Feeding changes like smaller, more frequent meals
Keeping baby upright after feedings
Safe reflux medication if needed
Techniques to improve safe sleep and comfort routines

Conclusion

When dealing with sleep challenges, it’s common for parents to notice that a colic baby will only sleep on stomach due to gas or tummy discomfort. While this may seem comforting for the baby, it’s essential to follow safe sleep guidelines and always place babies on their backs. If your infant resists back sleeping or cries excessively at night, speak to your pediatrician. With the right support, soothing techniques, and safe routines, your baby’s sleep can gradually improve.

FAQS

Do colic babies like to sleep on their stomach?

Some babies with colic feel better on their tummy. It may help with gas. But tummy sleep is not safe. Babies should always sleep on their back.

What should I do if my baby sleeps only on their tummy?

If your baby only sleeps this way, try holding them upright after feeds. Use soft sounds or gentle rocking. Place baby on back to sleep safely. See a doctor if it keeps happening.

Which sleep position helps soothe a baby with colic best?

The best and safest sleep position is on the back. To help colic, hold the baby upright, burp often, and keep feedings slow. Use calm, gentle movements.

Why will my baby only settle on his belly?

Your baby may feel better on their belly because it helps with gas or bloating. But this is not safe for sleep. Try swaddling, white noise, or soft bouncing to help your baby relax.