Purple Crying: When Babies Cry More | Parenting Hub
Purple crying is a normal phase of increased crying in young babies. Learn what it is, why it happens, and how to keep yourself and your baby safe during the fussy period.
Purple crying describes a period of increased, unexplained crying that peaks around 2 months of age. It is not a diagnosis, and it is not your fault — it is a normal developmental phase that will pass.
What 'purple crying' means
The PURPLE acronym describes a normal pattern of crying in young babies: Peak pattern (crying peaks around 2 months), Unpredictable, Resistant to soothing, Pain-like face, Long bouts, and Evening crying. It is not a sign that you are doing anything wrong.
Coping in the moment
When crying is intense and nothing seems to work, focus on safety and keeping your own nervous system calm. Put your baby somewhere safe and take a short break if you need one.
- Check the basics: hunger, nappy, temperature, overtiredness.
- Try the 5 S's: swaddle, side/stomach hold, shush, swing, suck.
- If you feel overwhelmed, place baby in the cot and walk away for a few minutes.
- Never shake a baby. If you are at breaking point, call a trusted person or PANDA on 1300 726 306.
It will pass
Purple crying usually starts around 2 weeks, peaks around 6–8 weeks, and improves significantly by 3–4 months. In the meantime, accept help, lower your expectations, and remind yourself that this phase is temporary.
When to seek help
- Crying that is constant and doesn't stop for any soothing at all — see your GP to rule out reflux, allergy or illness
- Fever, vomiting, lethargy, rash, or a high-pitched, abnormal cry — seek urgent care
- You feel unable to cope, angry, or worried you might harm yourself or your baby — get help immediately
Common questions
Is purple crying the same as colic?
They overlap. Colic is often defined as crying more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks. Purple crying is a broader term for the normal increase in crying that peaks around 2 months.
Does purple crying mean something is wrong?
Usually no. It describes a normal developmental pattern. However, if you are worried or crying is extreme, always see your GP or MCH nurse to rule out medical causes.
How can I survive the evenings?
Evening crying is very common. Plan a low-stimulation wind-down, accept that some evenings will be hard, and ask someone to take over for a while if you can. Your calm helps, even if it doesn't stop the crying.