All babies cry, some more than others. Crying is how your baby tells you they need comfort and care. Sometimes it’s easy to understand what they want, and sometimes it’s not. These moments are difficult for every parent because, first and foremost, they worry that something is wrong with their child. After a while, you yourself become irritable, and some even question their parenting skills or worry that they will never bond with their baby.
Babies cry for many reasons, and crying is their main way of communicating. It’s how they get your attention and express their needs. At first, it may be difficult to interpret what your baby is telling you, but as you spend more time listening to them, you will become better at recognizing and meeting your child’s specific needs.
The most common reasons why the baby is crying are the following:
- Hunger
- Dirty or wet diaper
- Fatigue
- They want to cuddle
- Heat or cold
- Colic
There may be times during the day when your baby cries a lot and you can’t soothe them. Early evening is the most common time for this. All of this can be very difficult for you, as you are also quite tired by that time. The duration of a baby’s crying usually peaks around the seventh week, and then gradually decreases.
Some babies cry and appear distressed during feeding times. If you are breastfeeding, you might notice that the baby calms down if you simply change positions.
Continuous crying can also be a sign that the baby has colic, stomach pains that can last for several hours. In this situation, there is little you can do except try to comfort your baby and wait for the crying to stop.
Inconsolable crying can also be a sign that the baby is in pain or has a fever. Around the sixth month of life, when the first teeth begin to emerge, babies may cry more.
Recent research has shown that according to the sound and intensity of crying, as well as the movements the baby makes, four types of crying can be distinguished:
- Crying when they are hungry
- Crying due to discomfort
- Crying when they are sick or in pain
- Crying due to colic
Crying can also mean that your child is too warm. Consider whether it’s wise to take your baby for a walk in the heat or when it’s freezing outside. A few minutes of fresh air is enough.
Whatever the cause of your baby’s crying, over time, you will learn to distinguish what they are telling you. No one expects you to be perfect parents. It’s enough to listen to your baby’s needs and do the best you can.
