What to Do When Your Baby Is Crying
It’s normal for babies to cry—especially newborns. During the first 3 months of life, babies may cry for about 2 to 3 hours a day. While it can be difficult to hear your baby cry and not know exactly why, crying is how babies communicate their needs. Here’s a guide to help you understand common reasons for crying and how you can soothe your little one.
Common Reasons Babies Cry
Babies use crying to express their needs. Running through this checklist may help you identify why your baby is upset:
- Is Baby Hungry?
Babies, especially newborns, need to eat frequently, even at night. Signs of hunger include chewing on hands, smacking lips, or crying. If your baby is often fussy, check with your pediatrician to ensure they’re getting enough milk or formula. - Does Baby Need a Diaper Change?
Many babies dislike the feeling of a wet or dirty diaper. Always check if their diaper is clean and dry. - Is Baby Tired?
Newborns need plenty of sleep, and crying can be a sign that they are tired. Signs include yawning, rubbing eyes, and fussiness. Help your baby fall asleep by gently rocking, feeding, or using a stroller or baby carrier. Always place your baby on a safe, flat sleep surface when putting them down to rest. - Does Baby Have Gas?
Babies often need help relieving gas. Try burping your baby after feeding or gently rubbing their tummy. Bicycle-like leg movements can also help release gas. If gas is a consistent issue, consult your pediatrician about safe remedies. - Does Baby Want to Be Held?
Babies love to feel close to their caregivers. Sometimes all they need is a cuddle. Use a baby carrier to keep them close while freeing up your hands. - Is Baby Too Hot or Too Cold?
Check your baby’s neck or belly to see if they feel too warm or cold. Adjust their clothing as needed. Ideally, keep the room temperature between 68-72°F for optimal comfort. - Does Baby Want to Move?
Some babies find movement soothing. Walking, rocking, or even a car ride might calm them down. - Does Baby Want to Suck?
Sucking can be very comforting for babies. If your baby is not hungry but is still fussy, try offering a pacifier. - Is Baby Overwhelmed?
Too much noise, light, or activity can overstimulate babies. Turning off screens and moving to a quieter environment can help calm them. - Is Baby Sick?
If your baby seems unwell, check for a fever. For babies under 2 months, a rectal temperature of 100.4°F or higher requires immediate medical attention. Older babies may also need to see a pediatrician for illness-related fussiness.
What is Colic?
Colic refers to periods of intense, prolonged crying in otherwise healthy babies, typically starting around 2 to 5 weeks old and ending by 3 to 4 months. If your baby cries for more than 3 hours a day, 3 days a week, for at least 3 weeks, they may have colic. While there’s no cure for colic, techniques like rocking, cuddling, and gentle back rubs can help.
What to Do When You Feel Overwhelmed
Hearing your baby cry non-stop can be overwhelming. If you start feeling stressed or frustrated, it’s okay to take a break. Put your baby in a safe place, like their crib, and step away for a few minutes to calm down. Deep breathing exercises, listening to music, or calling a friend can help you regain composure.
Important: Never shake your baby, swing them by their arms or legs, or try to quiet them with unsafe methods. If you frequently feel angry or overwhelmed, reach out to a mental health provider for support.
We Are Here for You
Dealing with a crying baby is hard, but it’s important to remember that most of the time, babies cry to communicate a need. By running through the checklist above, you can often find a way to soothe your little one. If you’re ever in doubt or worried about your baby’s crying, don’t hesitate to contact your pediatrician.
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