In the first few months of your bundle of joy being here it can be a rollercoaster of emotions, and we find parents often become stressed as they can’t work out why their baby is crying. During these first few months crying is the only way of letting you know that they want something. Throughout this blog we will give you some tips from experience on what to do if your baby won’t stop crying.
Common reasons why your baby may be crying
- Hunger – It may be time for your little one to have a feed. It is always important to look out for the feeding cues. Opening the mouth, putting their hand to their mouth turning their head from side to side are all cues.
- Being too cold or too hot – Your little one may be over or undressed which can cause them to become unsettled. It is advised that during the day you dress your infant in one or more two layers than what you’re wearing yourself. However in the eveing make sure your baby’s room is at a comfortable and safe temperature (it is advised to be between 16 and 20 celsius.)
- Wet or soiled nappy – A nappy that is wet or soiled can often cause your baby to be unsettled. It is advised to have frequent nappy changes that keep that little bottom comfy and reduce the risk of nappy rash.
- Tiredness – Being in the big wide world can be very tiring! If you notice your little one yawning or rubbing their eyes then it could be time for a nap.
- Needing a cuddle – like anyone your little one may need a a little love and attention. A cuddle may do the both of you the world of good.
- Trapped wind – When you fedd your little one they can swallow bubbles of air that get trapped in their tummy, this can often unsettle your little one. By winding your little one after feeding it helps get rid of those air bubbles.
Below I shall give you some tips on how to soothe your crying baby.
Top tips on how to soothe your crying baby
- Hold your baby close – Holding your baby close will reassure them. Singing, talking and moving around gently will help soothe and calm your baby.
- Stroke your baby’s back – Have your little one laid on your chest or lap, rub their will often soothe them.
- A warm sooth bath – This is one that can sometimes make your little one worse, so if it does then try another tip.
- Massage – By relxing your little on it may relieve any discomfort they may have for example if your rub their tummy it may relieve the discomfort of wind, colic or constipation. There are often massage classes you can attend so it may be a good idea to have a look out for local ones to you.
- Rock your baby in a pushchair or pram – The movement of your baby’s pushchair can create a relaxing effect. I always found going for a walk or drive helped my little one fall to sleep.
- Distract them – It is always a good trick to have a mobile over the cot, a colourful rattle or something similar will crete distraction.
- Put on soothing music or white noise
When your baby won't stop crying
Teething
The teething stages can vary quite a but, however it usually around the 4-6 month stage. At this point their teeth may start erupting, which cause the discomfort. It is advised to massage the sore gums or give them a chilled teething ring to chew on.
Signs that baby is teething can include –
- Red or sore gums where the tooth is trying to erupt
- A flushed cheek on one side
- Your little one may be rubbing their ear
- Excess dribbling than usual
- Gnawing and biting down on things
- Grumpiness
Colic
The exact causes of colic are not yet fully understood, however it does normally clear itself up around the 6 month mark.
Signs of colic
- Cries more than three hours a day, three days a week for at least a week
- Cries more often in the afternoon and evening
- Your little on is hard to soothe and cakm down
- They clench their fists and go red in the face
- They arch their back or adopt the foetal position
- They have a rumbling stomach and lots of wind.
I hope this blog of ‘how to soothe your crying baby’ helped. Head on over to our blog section for more helpful blogs.
