Why Is My Baby Crying?

Let’s be real: babies cry. A lot. Like, a lot a lot. And while it’s completely normal, that doesn’t make it any less stressful when you’re trying to figure out what your little bundle of joy needs (besides turning your life into a sleep-deprived, milk-soaked adventure). So, let’s break down the most common reasons your baby might be crying and how to handle it like the absolute pro that you are.

1. Hunger – The OG Reason

Crying is your baby’s way of saying, “Hey, human, feed me!” Babies have tiny tummies, so they need to eat often. If it’s been a couple of hours since their last feed, hunger is probably the culprit.

How to deal:

• Offer them a feed. Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, watch for hunger cues like lip-smacking, sucking on their hands, or turning their head toward you like a tiny bird.
• Keep snacks (aka milk) on standby because hangry babies wait for no one!

Pro tip: If you’ve just fed them and they’re still crying, they might be looking for comfort rather than food. Cue the cuddles!

2. Sleepy, But Can’t Even

Imagine being absolutely exhausted but having no clue how to fall asleep. That’s your baby! Overtiredness can make them extra fussy.

How to deal:

• Look for signs they’re ready to snooze, like rubbing their eyes, yawning, or zoning out.
• Create a soothing environment: dim lights, white noise, and a cozy swaddle if they’re into that.
• Master the art of the gentle rock, bounce, or stroll (bonus: you’ll hit your step count).

Pro tip: Try to put them down before they reach meltdown mode. Easier said than done, but worth a shot!

3. Dirty Nappy Drama

Nobody likes sitting in a dirty nappy (can you imagine!) - including your baby. Sometimes a quick change is all it takes to turn those screams into smiles.

How to deal:

• Check their nappy. If it’s wet or dirty, swap it out stat.
• Use wipes that are gentle on their skin and don’t forget nappy cream if needed.
• Keep a stash of nappies everywhere: the nursery, your bag, the car, and maybe even your pocket (just kidding…or am I?).

Pro tip: If they’re crying during the change, sing a silly song or hand them a toy to distract them.

4. Too Hot, Too Cold, Just Right?

Babies are like Goldilocks when it comes to temperature. Too hot or too cold? Cue the waterworks.

How to deal:

• Feel their neck or back to check their temperature. Hands and feet can feel cooler, so they’re not the best indicator.
• Dress them in layers so you can adjust as needed. A good rule of thumb is one more layer than what you’re wearing.
• Make sure their sleep area is cozy but not overheating. Aim for 16-20°C.

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for other signs like sweaty hair or red cheeks if you suspect they’re too warm.

5. Gas and Tummy Troubles

Babies’ digestive systems are still under construction, which means gas, colic, and general tummy discomfort can be a real mood-killer.

How to deal:

• Try burping them during and after feeds to help release trapped air.
• Gently massage their tummy or bicycle their legs to get things moving.
• If colic is an issue, consider gripe water or anti-colic bottles (and maybe invest in noise-canceling headphones for yourself).

Pro tip: Sometimes, a warm bath can work wonders for a gassy baby. Plus, who doesn’t love baby bath time?

6. Teething Troubles

Teething is basically a rite of passage for babies, but it’s no picnic. Swollen gums can make them cranky, drooly, and not-so-fun at 3 a.m.

How to deal:

• Offer a teething toy (pop it in the fridge for extra relief).
• Use a clean finger to gently massage their gums.
• If they’re really struggling, chat with your pediatrician about baby-safe pain relief.

Pro tip: Teething usually starts around 4-6 months, but some babies start earlier or later. Also keep bibs handy for all that drool! (You'll get used to it!)

7. Just Wanna Be Held

Sometimes, babies cry because they miss you. It’s sweet and exhausting all at once. They’re hardwired to seek comfort from their favorite human (that’s you!).

How to deal:

• Pick them up, snuggle, and sway. Skin-to-skin contact can be super soothing.
• Use a baby carrier to keep them close while freeing up your hands for other stuff (like snacks).
• Talk, sing, or hum to them. They love the sound of your voice.

Pro tip: If holding them all the time isn’t sustainable, try laying them down with a shirt that smells like you. Sneaky, right? But it works!

8. Overstimulated and Over It

Babies can get overwhelmed by too much noise, light, or activity. Imagine going to a rave when all you wanted was a nap…yeah, no thanks.

How to deal:

• Take them to a calm, quiet space to decompress.
• Reduce stimulation: turn off the TV, lower the lights, and shush the overly enthusiastic auntie.
• Swaddle or cuddle them to help them feel secure.

Pro tip: Keep an eye on their tolerance levels and plan outings around their more chill times.

9. Feeling Unwell

If you’ve ruled out all the usual suspects and your baby still seems off, they might be coming down with something.

How to deal:

• Check their temperature for a fever and look for other signs like a rash, vomiting, or a runny nose.
• Trust your gut. If something doesn’t seem right, call your pediatrician - remember mum knows best!
• Keep them hydrated and comfy while you figure out what’s going on.

Pro tip: Babies can’t tell you what’s wrong, so it’s okay to seek professional advice when in doubt. You’re not overreacting; you’re just a great parent.

10. No Reason at All (aka The Wild Card)

Sometimes, babies cry just because. Maybe they’re processing the day’s events, or maybe they’re just vibing in their own chaotic way.

How to deal:

• Stay calm (or as calm as you can). Babies can sense your stress.
• Try different strategies: cuddling, rocking, singing, or going for a walk.
• Remember, it’s not forever. Babies eventually grow out of the crying-all-the-time phase (we promise).

Pro tip: When all else fails, hand them off to someone else for a break. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s survival.

The Bottom Line

Babies cry because it’s their way of communicating. Sure, it’s not always clear what they’re trying to say, but you’ll get better at decoding their cues over time. And when in doubt, remember: fed, clean, comfy, and loved is always a good place to start. You’ve got this, parenting rockstar!