Why is my baby crying?

This was the first thing I Googled as a new mum. Your baby cries and it seems like no matter what you do, you can’t calm them down. While it’s completely normal for babies to cry, it can still be frustrating and overwhelming for parents. Understanding why your baby is crying can help provide comfort and relief.

Here we explore the Top 10 reasons why your baby might be crying and offer helpful tips on how to soothe them.

1. Hunger
The most common reason babies cry is because they’re hungry. Babies have small stomachs and need to eat frequently, especially in the early weeks. What to Do: Offer the breast or bottle. Try feeding your baby even if you think they’ve just eaten — sometimes, babies can go longer between feedings, but it’s always worth offering milk if they seem fussy.

2. Dirty Nappy
A wet or soiled nappy is another common culprit of crying. Babies may not like the feeling of being uncomfortable, and they might cry until their nappy is changed. What to Do: Check your baby’s nappy frequently and change it as needed. Keeping your baby clean and dry can often stop the crying.

3. Tiredness or Overstimulation
Babies need plenty of sleep, and sometimes they get fussy when they’re tired or overstimulated. This can happen when they’ve had too much excitement, noise, or activity or if it's been a while since their last nap. What to Do: Create a calm, quiet environment for your baby. Gently rock or swaddle them. Watch for signs of tiredness, such as rubbing their eyes, staring or yawning, and try to help them settle into a nap before they get too fussy.

4. Colic
Colic refers to excessive crying in a healthy baby, often occurring in the late afternoon or evening. While the exact cause of colic isn’t known, it can be incredibly distressing for both baby and parents. What to Do: Try holding your baby in different positions, such as the "colic hold" (baby lying across your forearm with their head at your elbow). Gentle rocking, swaddling, or using a white noise machine may also provide comfort. If you think colic might be the cause, talk to your Paediatrician for advice.

5. Gas or Digestive Discomfort
Babies often cry because of gas or other digestive issues, such as reflux. This can cause discomfort, especially after feedings. What to Do: Burp your baby frequently during and after feedings. You can also try gentle tummy massages or bicycle their legs to help relieve gas. If you suspect reflux, discuss it with your Paediatrician.

6. Too Hot or Too Cold
Babies can be very sensitive to temperature changes. If they’re too hot or too cold, they may cry to let you know they’re uncomfortable. What to Do: Check your baby’s temperature by feeling their neck or back. Dress your baby in layers so that you can adjust their clothing as needed. A general rule is to dress your baby in one more layer than you’re comfortable in.

7. Need for Comfort or Attention
Babies need love and attention. Sometimes they cry simply because they want to be held or need a little extra comfort. What to Do: Try picking up your baby and holding them close. Swaddle them, rock them, or sing to them. Responding quickly to their cries can help them feel secure and loved.

8. Teething
Teething can cause significant discomfort for babies, especially around 4 to 6 months of age. Babies often cry more during this time due to sore gums. What to Do: Offer your baby teething toys or chilled teethers to soothe their gums. Gently massaging their gums with a clean finger may also provide relief. If your baby seems particularly uncomfortable, consult your Paediatrician about using baby-safe pain relief.

9. Illness or Injury
If your baby has a fever, cold or ear infection, they may cry more than usual. Babies can’t always express where it hurts, so crying is their way of letting you know something is wrong. What to Do: Check your baby’s temperature and look for other signs of illness, such as a runny nose or cough. If your baby seems unwell or has a fever, contact your Paediatrician.

10. Your Stress and Anxiety
Babies are incredibly sensitive to their parents' emotional states, and if you're feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, your baby may respond by crying more. Research has shown that babies can pick up on their parents' emotions and, in turn, may exhibit increased stress or discomfort themselves (Field, T., 2010). When a parent feels anxious or stressed, it can create a cycle where both the parent and the baby become more upset, making it harder to calm the baby. What to Do: Try to stay calm and composed when your baby is crying. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that it’s okay to feel frustrated. If you need a break, place your baby safely in their crib and step away for a few minutes. Also, consider engaging in stress-reducing practices like mindfulness, yoga, or talking to a support network. Seeking support from a partner, family, or friends can also make a significant difference in managing your stress.

Final Thoughts
Crying is a normal part of babyhood, and while it can be stressful for parents, remember that your baby’s cries are their way of communicating. By understanding the top 10 reasons for crying and implementing these tips, you can soothe your baby and feel more confident in your parenting.

If your baby’s crying persists and you’re unsure of the cause, don’t hesitate to reach out to your Paediatrician for guidance. They can help rule out any medical issues and offer additional advice on how to comfort your little one.

Remember, you’re doing a great job — and it’s okay to seek support when you need it! One of the most important things to remember is that you're not alone. Connecting with other mums can help you realise the challenges you're facing are common, and hearing others' experiences can be incredibly comforting. Our mothers' groups offer a wonderful opportunity to connect with other parents, share experiences, and build a support network. We encourage you to come along and join us — we’re here to help!

Helplines for New Mothers:

1. PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia) – 1300 726 306
2. Lifeline – 13 11 14
3. Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

References:

• Field, T. (2010). Infant Crying and Maternal Anxiety. Pediatrics, 125(2), 272-279.