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Why Babies Cry
Crying and Comforting » Why babies cry
Hunger
You'll most probably learn to recognise this cry first. Babies often cry because of hunger and once fed, most will quieten down.
  • Feed on demand.
  • If your baby just wants to suck for comfort and you don't want to continue feeding him, give him a bottle of boiled water or pacifier instead.
Tiredness
Some new babies are not used to their new environment and will cry when tired. It takes an observant parent to tell this cry apart from the rest. You may notice your baby rubbing his eyes or ears when he is tired.
  • Lay your baby down where it is quiet and warm.
  • Swaddling or wrapping him with a blanket be-fore you put him down to sleep also helps.
  • Don't let him become overtired. Having a good routine from the outset can often avoid this problem.
Lack of comfort
Some babies stop their crying the moment you pick them up. This is a sign they want a cuddle.
  • Pick up your baby as soon as he cries.
  • Carry him around in a shawl or sling.
  • You can also lay your baby, tummy down, across your lap and gently massage his back.
Overstimulation
If a baby is played with constantly or passed around many people he may find this stressful.
  • Try and have some quiet time with your baby each day.
  • Don't feel afraid to sometimes give him a mobile to look at so he can entertain himself for a few minutes.
  • If at a family function try to keep the number of different people holding your baby to a minimum.
Startling
Sudden, jerky movements, loud noises, or a bright light can upset your baby. Rough physical games can be another cause of your baby's cries.
  • Hold your baby close, rock him gently and sing to him.
  • Avoid jerky movements, noise or light.
Undressing
Many babies don't like the feel of their skin being exposed. Undressing also puts them through movements which are neither familiar nor comfortable. Being jerked suddenly makes them fearful.
  • Undress your baby as little as possible in the first few weeks
  • Keep him covered or wrapped with a towel as you remove layers of clothing.
  • Talk to him reassuringly as you undress him.
Temperature
Extreme temperatures will also make him uncomfortable and cry. A soiled diaper that has become cold may cause discomfort to your baby.
  • Maintain your baby's room at a constant temperature.
  • Remove blankets and clothing if it is too hot; add a layer of clothing if too cold.
  • Check his diaper and change it if necessary.
Pain
Your baby may have an ear infection, colic, teething or some other source of pain. If his ears hurt, he may hit them with his fists; if it is colic, his knees may be drawn up to his abdomen. He could also be suffering from the sting of urine on nappy rash. Babies who are teething also often rub their ears.
  • Trace the cause of his pain; re-move or rectify it immediately.
  • If your baby appears ill, seek medical help.
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All information on indianbabycare.com is for educational purposes only. The place to get medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment is your physician. If you have personal concerns about the health of your baby, we recommend that you consult with your physician at once.