Phone Numbers
Directory assistance
(203) 688-4242
Patient information
(203) 688-4177
Adult emergency
(203) 688-2222
Children's emergency
(203) 688-3333
Admitting
(203) 688-2221
Children's admitting
(203) 688-3331
Psychiatric admitting
(203) 688-9907
Crying
All babies cry. It's the normal way for them to communicate. How much should your baby cry? Studies show the average newborn cries one to three hours each day. When a baby reaches six weeks of age, most will increase crying to two to four hours a day. By 10 weeks, most babies learn other ways to communicate with you and begin to quiet down and cry less.
What to look for
Babies use crying to communicate many things: hunger, a wet or dirty diaper,
tiredness, boredom, loneliness, gas or a need to be burped. When your
baby cries, try to determine the reason. When was the baby last fed or
burped? Is it the end of a busy, stressful day? Has the baby been in the
same position for a long time? Does he or she need a diaper change? Is
there something causing the baby discomfort such as an open diaper pin,
a rash or stuffy nose? Are there too many or too few blankets covering
the baby? Is this crying episode different than usual? Is the crying more
high-pitched or weaker than usual?
What you can do
Pick the baby up: Your baby's cry is a signal to you. The baby
will not be spoiled if you pick him or her up. An infant who is picked
up, cuddled and soothed is learning about forming a loving relationship,
an important developmental lesson. Babies who get a loving response to
their cries learn to trust and love others and may cry less often. Hold
a baby close to you so he or she can hear your heart beating. If your
arms get tired, you may find an infant carrier or sling helpful. If your
baby likes to be stroked, try putting him or her tummy down across your
lap as you gently stroke your baby's back.
Feeding: If you think your baby may be hungry, offer a bottle or breast, but don't respond to every cry with feeding. You may end up feeding your baby too often. If your baby's cries get worse with feeding, don't force it. Try to calm the baby by using the natural instinct to suck without eating; offer a pacifier. If you think your baby may not be getting enough food, consult your pediatrician who may suggest bringing the baby in for a height and weight check.
Breastfeeding: If you're breastfeeding, and your baby is crying frequently, consider changing position. Check to see if your child's nose is stuffed while trying to eat. Some babies cry because they're startled by the rush of milk when they start nursing. Some get fussy if the flow or taste of breast milk changes. The taste of breast milk can be affected by such foods as chocolate, onions, garlic, cabbage or caffeinated drinks, so nursing moms may want to cut back on these foods. Breast milk may also dry up if mom is upset, ill or not eating or drinking enough.
Know your baby: Babies are individuals and some thrive on routines. If your baby likes a steady pattern of activity, try to have a regular schedule of feeding, bathing, diaper changes, outings and bedtimes. Be consistent whenever possible, and even comfort your baby in a similar way whenever he or she fusses.
Other babies are comforted by changes. If your baby has been lying in one position for a long time and begins to cry, try changing position or put the baby in a different spot to enjoy a change in scenery.
Keep the peace and quiet: Try to limit noise and confusion around your baby. Soften the lights, keep the noise level down, play soft music. Handle your baby gently. Babies have a natural "startle" reflex, which can result in crying bouts in reaction to sudden noise or physical starts. Sing softly to your baby or talk in a quiet sing-song way. Babies like peaceful rhythmic music; the hum of a fan or a tape of nature sounds may also help.
Swaddling or swinging: Cultures all over the world for centuries have wrapped babies' arms and legs snugly in a blanket, called "swaddling." It has a calming and comforting effect on many babies. Other babies respond to rhythmic movements. Gently rock your baby in your arms, in a cradle or a baby swing. Walk and dance with your baby, take her or him for a ride in the car, or go for a walk with a stroller.
Put the baby down: Until they are used to the world, babies may cry just because they're tired. When you get to know your baby, you'll know when it's time to lay your baby down where it's quiet. Or, if you're sure your baby's safe and he or she is crying, don't feel guilty about not picking him or her up; give your baby a chance to quiet down and fall asleep.
Take care of yourself: One of the best things you can do for your baby is to take good care of yourself. Take a break and let another responsible person look after the baby. A parent who has been trying to quiet a crying infant for an hour or more is likely to feel sad, angry or frustrated. Your baby may well sense these negative emotions and become more upset. Try to get enough sleep. And if you ever feel out of control when caring for your infant, get help immediately. If no one is around to help, let your baby cry in bed for 10 to 15 minutes while you do something to relax. Never shake your baby. Shaking can seriously hurt or even kill your infant.
When to call the doctor
- If you are concerned something is wrong with your baby. Take note of several things about the crying and tell the doctor how long it's been going on, the intensity and how it's different from the baby's normal crying.
- If your baby is running a temperature or has any symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, runny nose, rash or loss of appetite.
- Before you give your baby any medicine or herbal preparation, change formula, cease breastfeeding or start solid foods, check with your doctor.
• YNHH Health Library: Crying
Reviewed: Robert LaCamera, MD
Last revised: May 30, 2007 (dh)
