One of the most challenging aspects of caring for a newborn is dealing with their crying. It’s normal for babies to cry—it’s their way of communicating their needs, discomforts, or frustrations. However, it can be stressful for parents when they’re unsure how to comfort their little one.
In this guide, we’ll explore common reasons why newborns cry and practical, soothing techniques to calm your baby.
😢 Why Do Newborns Cry?
Before we dive into how to soothe your baby, it’s helpful to understand why they cry. Crying is a newborn’s primary way of expressing their needs or discomfort. Here are some common reasons why your baby might be crying:
- Hunger: A baby’s stomach is small, and they need frequent feedings, typically every 2–3 hours.
- Dirty diaper: Babies cry when they feel wet or uncomfortable.
- Tiredness: Newborns need a lot of sleep and can become fussy if they’re overtired.
- Gas or colic: Stomach discomfort can lead to crying, often accompanied by pulling their legs up.
- Discomfort: Your baby might be too hot, too cold, or simply uncomfortable in their clothing or bedding.
- Need for comfort: Sometimes, babies just need to be held and comforted for reassurance.
- Overstimulation: Bright lights, loud noises, or too much activity can overwhelm a newborn.
- Teething (later on): While teething typically begins around 6 months, it can start earlier in some babies.
Now, let’s talk about ways to soothe them.
💡 1. Check for Basic Needs First
Before trying any soothing techniques, always check the basics first:
- Feed your baby if they haven’t eaten in a while.
- Change their diaper to ensure they’re clean and dry.
- Check the temperature: Make sure your baby is neither too hot nor too cold.
- Burp your baby if they’ve recently eaten, as trapped gas can cause discomfort.
🛌 2. Swaddle Your Baby
Swaddling can provide your newborn with a sense of security and comfort, mimicking the snug environment of the womb. When done safely, swaddling can help calm a crying baby.
- How to Swaddle: Lay a blanket flat, fold one corner down, and place your baby on it with their head above the fold. Wrap one side over their body, tuck in the bottom, and then wrap the other side. Ensure your baby’s hips are free to move to prevent hip dysplasia.
🕯️ 3. Offer Gentle Movement
Many babies find movement soothing. Here are a few ways to help calm your baby with gentle motion:
- Rock them: Hold your baby in your arms and gently rock them back and forth. Alternatively, a rocking chair or swing can provide consistent movement.
- Use a stroller or baby carrier: Walking with your baby in a stroller or carrier can mimic the rhythmic motion they felt while inside the womb.
- Car ride: Sometimes, a short drive can lull your baby to sleep, as the motion and hum of the car can be soothing.
💤 4. Try White Noise
Newborns are used to the sounds of the womb—such as the rhythmic beat of your heartbeat and the swish of blood flow. White noise can mimic these sounds and help calm your baby. You can try:
- White noise machines: These can be purchased and are specifically designed for babies.
- A fan or vacuum: The soft hum of a fan or vacuum cleaner can have a similar calming effect.
- A recording of womb sounds: There are apps that offer sounds like heartbeat, ocean waves, or other calming noises.
👂 5. Offer a Pacifier
Sucking is a natural soothing mechanism for babies. If your baby is not hungry but is still fussy, offering a pacifier can provide comfort and help them calm down. If your baby refuses the pacifier, don’t worry—it’s not for every baby.
🧸 6. Try the “5 S’s” Soothing Method
The “5 S’s” technique, developed by pediatrician Harvey Karp, is a highly effective approach to calming a crying baby:
- Swaddle: Wrap your baby snugly in a soft blanket.
- Side or Stomach Position: Gently hold your baby on their side or stomach (never lay them on their stomach to sleep).
- Shush: Make a “shh-shh-shh” sound to mimic the sounds of the womb.
- Swing: Gently rock your baby in your arms or in a baby swing.
- Suck: Offer a pacifier or let your baby suck on your finger for comfort.
🥰 7. Hold Your Baby Close (The Power of Touch)
Sometimes, your baby may just need the comfort of your touch. Babies often stop crying when they’re held close to a parent, feeling secure and loved. You can:
- Hold your baby in your arms and gently sway or rock them.
- Use a baby carrier to keep your baby close to you, which can help them feel comforted and calm.
- Try skin-to-skin contact: This bonding experience not only helps soothe your baby but also promotes emotional and physical development.
🎶 8. Try Calming Music
Soft, soothing music can help calm your baby, especially lullabies or gentle instrumental tunes. Keep the volume low to avoid overstimulating your newborn.
🧠 9. Be Patient and Stay Calm
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, your baby will continue to cry. This can be frustrating, but remember, crying is normal and will eventually pass. Stay calm, and take a deep breath. Babies can pick up on your stress, so try to stay composed.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to put your baby down in their crib (safely), and take a moment for yourself. You can always return to your baby once you feel calm.
🏥 When to Seek Help
In most cases, crying is just part of being a newborn. However, if your baby’s crying is persistent, unusually intense, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms (like fever, vomiting, or diarrhea), it may be a sign of something more serious, such as an illness or infection. In such cases, contact your pediatrician.
💡 Final Thoughts
Crying is one of the many ways your newborn communicates with you. While it can be challenging at times, learning the reasons behind your baby’s cries and practicing these soothing techniques will help both you and your baby feel more comfortable. Remember, you’re not alone—every parent experiences this stage. Be patient with yourself, and know that this phase will eventually pass.
Reference:
- How to Calm a Fussy Baby: Tips for Parents & Caregivers – HealthyChildren.org
https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/crying-colic/Pages/Calming-A-Fussy-Baby.aspxHealthyChildren.org+3HealthyChildren.org+3HealthyChildren.org+3 - What to Do When Babies Cry – Nemours KidsHealth
https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/babies-cry.htmlKids Health+1Kids Health+1 - Crying and Your Baby: How to Calm a Fussy or Colicky Baby – Central Coast Pediatrics
https://www.centralcoastpediatrics.net/Crying-and-Your-Baby-How-to-Calm-a-Fussy-or-Colick-1centralcoastpediatrics.net
