20 Reasons why your baby is crying

overcoming a nursing strike / why your baby is crying /feeding cues and stomach sizes

20 Reasons why your baby is crying

By Nikki, a Certified Postpartum Doula (DONA), Certified Newborn Care Specialist, and Certified Lactation Counselor, and the co-founder of Metropolitan Doulas

Here is a short (and far from complete) list of possible answers.

Usually, a baby can be soothed by addressing one of the big 4:

  1. ​Hungry
  2. Tired
  3. Dirty Diaper
  4. Gas

 

Sometimes there is something else going on:

  1. Diaper rash
  2. Too hot
  3. Too cold
  4. Loud noise
  5. Too quiet
  6. Wants to suck
  7. Wants to be held/feels alone
  8. Hair wrapped around a finger or toe
  9. Fever
  10. Teething
  11. Overstimulation
  12. Clothing tag/velcro from swaddle is rubbing skin
  13. Swinging, but wants bouncing
  14. Bouncing, but wants swinging
  15. Reflux/silent reflux
  16. Pain from recent heel pricks, vaccinations, other medical interventions

 

Looking at this list may make you want to laugh or cry (or laugh-cry simultaneously).  But remember, an infant’s cry is a reflex, not an emotional statement.  Make your baby as safe and comfortable as you are able to, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. We are here for you!

ABOUT NIKKI

Nikki is a Certified Postpartum Doula (DONA), Certified Newborn Care Specialist, and Certified Lactation Counselor, with 1000’s of hours of experience working with new parents. She is also the co-founder of Metropolitan Doulas, where she provides best quality postpartum care and support in the Washington DC, Northern Virginia, and Maryland area.

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