10 reasons babies cry

Here are 10 of the most common reasons why babies cry, and how you can soothe
them. Call your doctor if your baby has difficulty breathing through the crying, or if she
also has fever, vomiting or diarrhoea.
 

I'm hungry

Hunger is one of the most common reasons that your newborn baby will cry.

Your baby's small stomach can't hold very much so if she cries try offering her some milk.
She may be hungry even if her last feed doesn't seem very long ago.

I'm tired

Your baby may find it hard to get to sleep particularly if she is over-tired. Your baby's
sleep cues will tend to be whining and crying at the slightest thing, staring blankly into
space, and going quiet. Help her by teaching her to soothe herself to sleep.

I just feel like crying!

If your baby is less than five months old she may cry in the late afternoon and evenings.
This is normal but it can be very stressful for you. Persistent crying in an otherwise
healthy baby is traditionally called colic.

Cuddling your baby, going for a drive or creating white noise say from a ceiling fan
or AC for example may soothe your crying baby.

I need a nappy change

Your baby may protest if a wet or soiled nappy is bothering her. If her tender skin is
being irritated she will probably tell you by crying. Always use barrier cream at nappy
changes and if possible give your baby nappy-free time.

I need to burp

If your baby cries during or straight after a feed, she may have gas. Gas is simply the
air in your baby's tummy which she's swallowed as she feeds or even when she cries.

Patting or rubbing your baby's back are good ways to burp her. Check out our video
on how to burp your baby.

I'm too hot

Take care not to overdress your baby, or she may become too hot. She will generally
need to wear one more layer of clothing than you to be comfortable.

I'm too cold

Your newborn may hate having her nappy changed or being bathed. She may not be
used to the feeling of cold air on her skin. But you will soon learn how to perfect a quick
nappy change if this is the case.

I don't feel well

Be aware of changes in your baby. If she's unwell she'll probably cry in a different tone to

her usual cry. It may be weaker more urgent continuous or high-pitched.

Nobody knows your baby as well as you do. If you feel that there may be something
wrong with her call your doctor.

There's too much going on!

If your baby has received a lot of attention and cuddles from doting visitors and family
members she may become over-stimulated. Take your baby somewhere calm and quiet
to help her settle down or sleep.

I need a cuddle

Your baby will need lots of cuddling and reassurance to comfort her.

Try a baby sling to keep her close to you perhaps swaying and singing to her while you
hold her.