WHY DO BABIES CRY

Why Do Babies Cry?

We all know the sound, but people often wonder: Why do babies cry? There can be a whole host of reasons, but, primarily, your baby cries as a way to communicate with you. They may be uncomfortable, hungry, tired, or even just lonely. Learning what their different types of crying are saying is key to helping them calm down—and giving your ears a break. The more familiar you become with each baby cry meaning, the better you can respond, eventually leading to less crying in general. 

Although there are potentially a limitless number of crying causes, they typically fit into one of five general categories: hungry, upset, overstimulated, overtired, and in pain. Below, learn how to know what your infant is trying to tell you with their cries.

When your bouncing and lovely baby first arrived in this world, they likely announced their entrance with a cry. They weren’t just saying a grand hello!—baby cries at birth are how their lungs start working. While it may have been a rush of relief when you first heard them, seeing your baby crying on a daily basis and not knowing the cause can be upsetting for both of you.

 

Of course, practice makes perfect, and over time, you’ll become more familiar with what they’re trying to tell you. Until then, we’ll help you translate. Ahead, we’re explaining the four different types of crying, why babies cry in the first place, various stages of baby cries by age, and finally, most importantly, how to calm a crying baby. Read on for your guide to types of crying in babies.

11 Types of Cries & What They Mean

Each time babies cry, they are all trying to tell you something. Understanding them will save both you and your baby from so much stress.

Just as adults have different intonations when they speak, so, too, do your baby’s cries. See if any of the following sound familiar. Babies communicate their needs and emotions through various types of cries. While individual cries can vary, here are some common types of baby cries:

 

1.1. Overtired

We all have our limits—your baby is no exception. If there is too much of a hubbub around them, such as excessive noise, activity, or movements, they may cry as a way to release the tension it’s causing. Simply put: they’re annoyed. Try to tamp down on anything overstimulating to help soothe them.

Likewise, a tired baby can be a cranky baby. And infants need a lot of sleep—14 to 17 hours a day in their first three months, and 12 to 15 hours in the next eight months. Sometimes good ‘ol nap time will do the trick. (And it might be a prime opportunity for you to sneak one in too!)

2. Hunger Cry

This cry is often short, low-pitched, and rhythmic. It may intensify if the baby is not fed promptly.

3. Discomfort Cry

 

Babies cry when they are uncomfortable, such as when their diaper is wet or when they feel too hot or cold.

 

4. Sleepy Cry

 

A tired baby may cry with yawning or rubbing eyes. This cry is usually whiny and can be accompanied by fussiness.

 

5. Pain Cry

 

A cry of pain is sharp, sudden, and intense. It may be accompanied by other signs of distress like facial grimacing.

6. Attention Cry

 

Babies cry to seek attention and interaction. This cry is often soft and may have pauses to see if anyone responds.

7. Overstimulation Cry

When a baby becomes overwhelmed by stimuli like noise, lights, or activity, they may cry to express their discomfort.

 

8. Colic Cry

Colic is defined as prolonged, intense crying in an otherwise healthy and well-fed baby. Colicky cries are often loud, high-pitched, and difficult to soothe.

 

9. Gas or Discomfort Cry

Babies may cry when they have gas or digestive discomfort. The cry is usually accompanied by pulling up the legs to the abdomen.

 

10. Reflux Cry

Babies with acid reflux may cry during or after feeding, arch their back, and show signs of discomfort.

11. Teething Cry

 

When babies are teething, they may cry due to gum soreness and discomfort.

 

Remember that each baby is unique, and caregivers will gradually learn to distinguish between different cries and understand the baby’s needs and emotions better over time. It’s essential to respond to a baby’s cries with care, attention, and comfort. If a baby’s crying seems excessive or unusual, it’s always a good idea to consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying health issues.

 

It’s important to remember that crying is a natural and normal part of a baby’s development, and it’s their way of communicating with caregivers. Responding promptly and attentively to a baby’s cries can help build a strong bond of trust between the baby and their caregivers. However, if a baby’s crying is excessive, continues for extended periods, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s essential to consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying health issues.