Why Is My Baby Crying? Reasons and Soothing Tips for Crying Babies

One of the hardest moments for parents is hearing their baby cry and not knowing why. Many parents find themselves asking the same question again and again: Why is my baby crying?

In the early weeks, newborn babies cry because it is their main way of communicating. They cannot tell us when they are hungry, tired, uncomfortable, or need comfort. Instead, they cry to signal that something is not right.

While crying babies are completely normal, constant crying can feel overwhelming. Some babies cry a lot, especially in the first few months of life. Understanding the reasons behind the cries can help parents feel calmer and more confident when soothing a crying baby.

In this guide, we explain the most common reasons babies cry, what the period of purple crying means, and simple ways to comfort your baby safely.

If you’re unsure why your child is crying, you can also try the Parenting Hub Baby Cry Decoder, a simple tool designed to help parents understand possible reasons for their infant’s cries and discover ways to soothe their baby.

Why Is My Baby Crying?

Many parents assume that when a baby is crying, something must be wrong. In most cases, however, crying is simply how babies communicate their needs.

Here are some common reasons why babies cry a lot.

Hunger

One of the most common reasons an infant cries is hunger. Babies have small stomachs and need frequent feeds.

Your baby may cry if:

• It has been a few hours since the last feed
• The baby is rooting or sucking their hands
• The baby becomes unsettled shortly after waking

Whether your baby is breastfeed or formula-fed, feeding on demand can help settle hunger cries.

 

Tiredness

Sometimes, a newborn cries because they are overtired. When babies stay awake too long, they can struggle to settle and become fussy.

Signs your baby may be tired include:

• Rubbing eyes
• Turning away from stimulation - give your baby a break when you notice these signs
• Fussing or crying and fussing behaviour

Creating a calm sleep environment can help put your baby to sleep more easily.

 

Discomfort

Another reason the baby is crying may be simple discomfort.

This could include:

• A wet or dirty nappy
• Clothing that is too tight
• Feeling too hot or too cold

Checking basic comfort needs can often quickly stop crying.

 

Needing Comfort

Sometimes babies cry simply because they need reassurance. Being held close helps babies feel safe.

Ways to comfort your baby include:

• Hold your baby close to your chest
• Gently rock or sway
• Use skin-to-skin contact

Many parents find that carrying a baby in a baby carrier can help settle unsettled babies.

 

Gas or Colic

If your baby cries a lot, especially in the evening, gas or colic may be contributing.

Colic is often described as crying babies who cry intensely for long periods, even when basic needs have been met.

A gentle massage of your baby's tummy can sometimes help release trapped gas and soothe discomfort.

 

The Period of Purple Crying

Many parents notice that their baby cries a lot during the first few months. This stage is sometimes known as the period of purple crying.

This phase is normal and usually occurs between 2 weeks and 3–4 months of age.

During this period:

• Babies may cry more in the evening
• Crying may start suddenly
• Babies can be difficult to soothe

Understanding this stage can reassure parents that crying and unsettled babies are often part of normal development.

 

How to Soothe a Crying Baby

When an infant cries, the first step is to check the most common needs such as feeding, sleep, and comfort. If those needs are met, the following techniques may help soothe a crying baby.

Swaddling

Swaddling can help newborn babies feel secure, similar to the feeling of being in the womb. A properly fitted swaddle can reduce startling and help babies settle.

 

Gentle Movement

Babies often respond well to movement. Rocking or walking while you hold your baby can help calm them.

Some parents also find that placing their baby in their cot and gently patting or rocking the mattress can help babies settle.

 

White Noise

Soft background sounds can help recreate the comforting environment babies experienced before birth.

White noise, gentle music, or soothing sounds can sometimes help the baby to sleep.

You can soothe your little one with a personalised lullaby created from the Genie Lullaby site.

 

Tummy Massage - Why is My Baby Crying?

A gentle tummy massage may help ease discomfort from gas, helping your baby settle down.

Using slow circular motions on the baby's tummy can sometimes ease discomfort and help stop crying.

 

When to Place Your Baby in a Safe Place

Sometimes parents feel overwhelmed when their baby won't stop crying. It is important to remember that it is okay to take a short break.

If you feel stressed:

• Place your baby in a safe place, such as their cot
• Step away briefly to calm yourself
• Take a few deep breaths before returning

Babies are safest when caregivers remain calm.

It is very important to remember: never shake a baby.

Shaking can cause serious brain damage and can be life-threatening. If you are struggling with a crying baby, seek support from a health professional, a health nurse, or a trusted family member.

 

When to Seek Help - Why is My Baby Crying?

While most crying is normal, there are times when you should contact a health professional.

Speak to your doctor or health nurse if:

• Your newborn cries constantly and cannot be soothed
• Your baby is unwell or has a fever
• Your baby refuses to feed
• You feel concerned about your baby’s behaviour

Healthcare professionals can help determine whether your baby’s crying is part of normal development or related to another issue.

 

Understanding Your Baby’s Cries

Every baby who cries communicates in slightly different ways. Over time, parents begin to recognise the different sounds and patterns of the cries.

For example:

• Hunger cries may sound rhythmic
• Tired cries may sound whiny or fussy
• Pain cries are usually louder and more urgent

Learning to recognise types of infant cries takes time, but it becomes easier as parents gain experience.

 

Final Thoughts – Crying Babies

If you have ever asked yourself, “Why is my newborn crying?”, you are not alone. Crying is part of normal development, and most babies go through periods where they cry a lot.

Understanding the reasons behind a baby's crying can help parents respond calmly and confidently. Whether your baby needs feeding, comfort, sleep, or help with gas, simple soothing techniques can often help.

Most importantly, remember that caring for a crying baby can be challenging, and support is always available. If you feel unsure or overwhelmed, speaking to a health professional can provide reassurance and guidance.

With time, patience, and support, parents learn to understand their baby’s cues and respond with confidence.

If you are still wondering why your baby is crying, the Parenting Hub Newborn Cry Decoder can help you explore possible causes and discover gentle ways to soothe your baby. Parenting Hub offers trusted guidance, helpful tools, and expert support for parents from pregnancy to early childhood.

You can soothe your little one with a personalised lullaby created from the Genie Lullaby site. The Parenting Hub platform also has a free lullaby library.

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