Why Your Baby Cries

Babies cry most between 4 and 6 weeks of age. They might cry up to 3 hours a day. Respond promptly to soothe your baby. This is better than letting the baby cry it out.

Crying is your baby's way of telling you that he needs you. But finding out what the baby needs is not always easy. Healthy babies cry when:

 

I'm hungry

 

Hunger is the most common reason for crying. Learn how to tell when your baby is hungry. Often this cry is demanding and persistent. Signs of hunger include mouthing, sucking, smacking lips, and searching with an open mouth. Feed your baby before she starts crying.

 

I'm lonely

 

Your touch, voice and smell help make your baby feel secure and loved. There are many ways to comfort your baby if he is lonely. A rhythmic motion (like rocking or walking) is the best way to soothe your baby. Here are some other things you can do:

• Pick up, hug, and cuddle your baby gently. This will not spoil your baby.
• Sing, coo or talk to your baby.
• Rub or pat your baby's back.
• Gently massage your baby.
•  Provide soft music or a ticking clock.
• Use a snugly or sling to carry your baby with you.
• Take your baby for a ride in the stroller or car.

 

I'm gassy

Gas can make your baby feel uncomfortable. He might cry when he needs to poop. Here are some things you can do to make him feel more comfortable.

• Burp your baby often.
• Rock or walk with your baby.
• Hold your baby.
• Lay your baby on his back and move his legs in a gentle bicycling motion.

*    Herbal medicines should not be given to babies who are gassy and crying. They might be harmful.

I'm wet or dirty

Check and change your baby's diaper.

 

I'm too hot or too cold

Babies cannot control their body temperature as well as adults can. You can tell if your baby is too hot or too cold by touching her on the tummy or back of the neck. Your baby might be wearing too many or too few clothes or blankets. Dress your baby like you are dressed, then add one extra layer, such as a sweater or blanket.

I'm bored

Your older baby may cry when he is bored. This is a low pitched cry with coos and sighs. You can make your baby's world more interesting by adding a mobile, bright colors, pictures, mirrors, toys, music, rattles, noise from a vacuum cleaner or voices. Keep him near you so he can watch you.

I'm overloaded

Some babies become easily over-loaded with lots of activity. Learn to know when your baby is over-stimulated, and how to calm the baby. This will help to lessen crying.

Changes in Crying

Changes in your baby's normal crying can mean your baby is sick. You may need to call your doctor if your baby:

• cries louder without stopping
• shrieks and screams
• has a fever, is pale, or throws up
• seems to be in pain.

When nothing seems to help, and if you feel angry:

• Do not shake your baby. Shaking can cause brain damage or death.
• Put the baby in a safe place, like a crib.
• Do not pick up the baby when you are angry.
• If possible, call someone you can trust to take care of the baby so you can have a break. Even talking on the phone can help. Try your family or friends.