Perhaps the basic characteristic that every baby shows is a cry. From the moment of their birth, babies can be expected to cry a lot. Why the baby is crying is one of the main concerns of new mothers. The reason for this has been a topic of interest for scientists and homemakers alike.
And though we still are yet to unravel the science behind this universal phenomenon, we have a vague idea as to what may cause babies to cry so much. No wonder, crying babies make their parents upset as well; to see their little baby cry and not being able to understand the reason for it makes parents sad and angry both.
In This Article
Top Reasons Why Babies Cry?
Crying is the only form of communication. A lot of inconveniences would have been avoided if babies would know how to talk! However, since they do not, we have to rely on common reasons as to why a baby would cry. At times, several of these factors can combine.
Hunger
Hunger is the most common reason why your baby may be crying. Only if you are entirely sure that the baby is not hungry do you look for other factors. Watch out if he is smacking or rooting towards your hands/breasts.
Soiled Diaper
Yes, babies have erratic toilet behavior and there is absolutely nothing you can do about it. An important indicator that your child has soiled his/her diaper is when they begin crying. Once you change the diaper, the crying should stop.
Wants To Be Cuddled
Sometimes your little one wants to be loved and held and cuddled and feel their parents. Try stroking and make them feel warm in your embrace.
Lack of Sleep
An infant needs sleep and a lot of it. And when he/she does not have enough of sleep, it is manifested in the form of crying. If this is the case, then you can try and cradle your baby to sleep.
Environment Factors
It may be too hot or too cold for your baby. At times, your baby may be wrapped in flannel clothing even in warm weather. A baby likes to be warm and snuggle.
Unfamiliar Surroundings or Posture
Sometimes, unfamiliar surroundings may act as a trigger for the baby to begin crying. While holding a baby or while the baby is in a crib, it is important to pay attention to the posture. Crying may also stem from an uncomfortable posture.
Long Journeys
A common scenario in trains or flights is that of a crying baby. A child can be expected not to take journeys in a light manner. So it would be best to avoid traveling with an infant for as long as possible.
Stomach Problems (Burp, gas, colic)
A frequent and common problem associated with a crying baby is colic. This condition has not yet been understood in its entirety, but doctors believe that changing the posture could help resolve colic.
Crowded Places
Few babies embrace a crowded atmosphere. Thus, it is no surprise that an infant’s birthday party is no place.
Stimulation
Your little one may or may not enjoy noises and sights. He may want to snuggle with his parents in peace, and at times he may be eager to see the world and process the changes. You need to do some trial and error to hit the bull’s eye.
Not Feeling Well
Well, if you feel everything else has been taken care of, there are chances that your baby is not feeling well. Call upon a doctor!
Just Want To cry
That is true, sometimes babies just cry because they want to cry, especially if they are less than 5 months old. Towards late afternoon or early evening, your baby may cry inconsolably for hours at a stretch. This is completely normal, and your baby might be a colicky baby.
Even if you do everything right, the chances of your child not crying are very low (sigh). Hence, it is helpful to know some tricks to silence a baby. Though each baby requires a different type of handling, there are some methods that can be effective for everyone. Swaddling or cradling a baby is a method that works almost inevitably.
FAQ’s
1. How Long Can A Baby Cry?
Babies of any age have their share of crying fits and fussiness. They often cry for two to three hours every day for the first six weeks of their lives. Babies cry more during their first three months of life.
2. At What Age Do Babies Cry The Most?
First-three-month-olds cry a lot. 1 in 10 newborns screams more than 2 hours a day. Crying peaks at 6 weeks and drops to one hour a day by 12 weeks.
3. Can Too Much Cry Hurt A Baby?
As long as there are no underlying health concerns, a baby’s incessant wailing is harmless. Even if they are hoarse from sobbing, they will wear out and cease. It’s normal for your infant to be a bit gassy from swallowing air when crying.