How to Easily Identify Different Crying Signals From Newborn and Soothe Them
by On Off Social Pte Ltd on Nov 18, 2022
As a new parent, you've got a lot to get used to. Sleepless nights, dirty diapers and deciphering what your baby needs from you. All babies get fussy, it's normal for newborns to cry.
“Why?” You may ask, well, babies cry as their main form of communication. And you may find it tough to identify the different reasons for why they are crying.
But not to worry, we have gone through the top most common reasons for a baby to cry and we’ll help you get through your wailing situation with some guidance!
Top 6 Reasons for Crying:
Hungry
Main Cues
Listen out for a “Neh” sound before a rhythmic cry that gets frantic over time till it’s answered. You can also notice your baby sucking on their fingers or a sucking motion with their tongue.
What to do
Feeding them with breastmilk or normal milk to help ease their hunger. Once satisfied, your baby will feel more relaxed. They may also push your bottle or breast away, discouraged from sucking. After feeding, they might smile and look more content and just might be ready for another nap!
Tired
Main Cues
A whiny, nasally high-pitched cry. Their cries may be weary whimpers. Your baby might have red areas around their eyes. And they may seem restless, rubbing their eyes.
What to do
Observe your little one’s sleep schedule. They tend to have the same bedtime daily. Placing them in a crib before this timing can help them sleep on their own. Swaddling is also a great way to provide extra comfort for your baby. You can do this by wrapping up your baby with a light and breathable material, like our swaddles which are made from 70% bamboo and 30% eco-friendly organic cotton. This would help your little one sleep snugly.
Sick
Main Cues
You’ll hear soft, desperate whimpers. As if your baby has no energy.
What to do
Pay close attention to their body temperature and additional symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea. Consult your doctor if you suspect that your baby is unwell.
Colic
Have you heard of the word Colic before? It is a special pattern of crying that may happen to your baby who is growing up healthily but still cries in spells. There might be no apparent reason for this occurrence and your baby can seem inconsolable.
Main Cues
Listen out for intense, loud wailings. These can stretch for longer hours than a normal cry.
What to do
Playing white noise or soothing music in the background can help calm your baby. Swaddling your baby might comfort them. You can also get close and respond to them to provide extra comfort. Another method you could use is to give your baby a backrub when placing them on your lap to make them feel better.
Uncomfortable
Main Cues
Similar to your baby’s tired cries but more consistent.
What to do
Check for dirty diapers. They may also need to burp. You might want to gently pat your little one’s back to get the burp out.
Teething
Main Cues
Listening for eerie, distressed cries.
What to do
Providing your baby with a pacifier can help with teething. You may also want to get a silicone teether that is safe and washable. Teethers can also be chilled for added relief.
Your baby’s cries can be frustrating to deal with, but don’t worry you’ll be a master of figuring out their needs soon with our guide above.
Photo by Katie Smith on Unsplash
