Blog article
Why is my baby crying? Causes, comfort tips and when to seek help
Forget English, Mandarin or Spanish – your baby’s first language is crying. And unfortunately, they’re born fluent.
Whether it’s a soft whimper or a full-body wail at 3am, crying is how your baby communicates everything from hunger to “I just need a cuddle.” It’s normal, it’s expected, and yes, it can be overwhelming. But understanding why your baby is crying (and what you can do about it) can make those tough moments feel a little less mysterious and a lot more manageable.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the most common reasons babies cry, what’s normal (and what’s not), and gentle ways to soothe your little one – even during witching hour.
Why is my baby crying?
Crying is your baby’s first language – a powerful, instinctive way to communicate their needs. While it can feel overwhelming (especially at 3am), it’s completely normal and expected. In fact, most babies cry for around 2-3 hours a day in the early weeks.1,2
Here are some of the most common reasons your baby might be crying:
- Hunger: One of the most common reasons babies cry is because they’re hungry – even if they’ve just fed. Newborns have tiny stomachs and may need to feed 8 to 14 times in 24 hours.3 A hungry cry often starts soft and builds in intensity.
- Tiredness or overstimulation: Babies can become overtired quickly – sometimes after just 1.5 to 2 hours of wakefulness.1 A tired cry may sound whiny or fussy.
- Discomfort: A wet or dirty nappy, tight clothing, or being too hot or cold can all cause distress. Babies often cry when they’re uncomfortable but can’t yet shift position or regulate their temperature.4,5
- Need for closeness: Sometimes, babies just want to be held. They may cry for comfort, reassurance, or connection.5
- Wind or tummy trouble: Gas, reflux, or general tummy discomfort can lead to crying during or after feeds.1,5,7
- Developmental changes: Crying often increases around 6-8 weeks of age and then gradually decreases by 3-4 months.1,2 This period is sometimes referred to as the “PURPLE crying” phase.5,6
- Illness or pain: If your baby’s cry sounds different, is high-pitched, or they seem unwell (e.g. refusing feeds, fever, vomiting), it’s important to check for signs of illness and seek medical advice.1,5
Quick reference: Common reasons for crying
| Reason | Signs to look for |
|---|---|
|
Hunger |
Rooting, sucking hands, alertness, recent feed was small or skipped3 |
|
Tiredness |
Yawning, fussiness, jerky movements, staring into space1,2 |
| Discomfort | Squirming, arching back, red face, nappy rash, too hot/cold4,5 |
| Need for closeness | Calms when held, cries when put down, seeks skin-to-skin3,6 |
| Wind or tummy pain | Drawing up legs, bloated tummy, crying after feeds1,7 |
| Overstimulation | Turning away, crying after busy environments or lots of handling4,5 |
| Illness or injury | Sudden change in cry, fever, vomiting, rash, refusal to feed1,5 |
The PURPLE crying phase (often referred to as colic)
Colic is an outdated term often used to describe babies who cry excessively and are difficult to soothe. Colic is not a medical diagnosis – it is more of a catch-all label for unexplained crying in otherwise healthy babies.1,5,7 Today, many health professionals prefer the PURPLE crying framework, which offers a more evidence-based way to understand this normal developmental phase.
PURPLE stands for:5,6
- Peak of crying: Most intense around 6-8 weeks of age.
- Unexpected: Crying can start and stop without warning.
- Resists soothing: Even tried-and-true calming techniques may not work.
- Pain-like face: Baby may look like they’re in pain, even if they’re not.
- Long-lasting: Crying can go on for hours.
- Evening: Crying often intensifies in the late afternoon or evening.
This phase typically begins in the first few weeks of life and gradually eases by 3-4 months. It’s completely normal and not a sign that anything is wrong, it’s just part of your baby’s emotional and neurological growth.
While some babies may be sensitive to stimulation, have tummy discomfort, or simply need extra closeness, it’s important to know that medications marketed for colic have no proven benefit.7 However, if your baby’s cry sounds different, they refuse feeds, or you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to your GP or child health nurse for support.
The baby witching hour
Many parents notice their baby becomes fussier in the late afternoon or early evening – often referred to as the witching hour. This is a common time for babies to cry more, cluster feed, or resist settling.3,7 Witching hour can occur for a number of reasons, including:
- Overstimulation: After a full day of sights, sounds, and interactions, babies can become overwhelmed.6
- Overtiredness: Some babies struggle to wind down when they’re tired, making it harder for them to settle.1
- Developmental changes: This period often overlaps with the peak of the PURPLE crying phase, when crying is more intense and less predictable.4
Planning ahead can help make this time more manageable. Try having an early dinner, dimming the lights, or going for a walk to create a calmer environment for both you and your baby.3
Why is my baby crying during sleep?
It’s not unusual for babies to cry or fuss briefly during sleep – especially in the first few months. This can happen as they transition between sleep cycles, experience active (REM) sleep, or respond to internal sensations like wind or temperature changes.5 You might notice your baby whimpering, grizzling, or even letting out a short cry before settling again without waking fully.
This kind of sleep-related crying is typically harmless. However, if your baby’s cry escalates, they seem distressed, or they’re difficult to settle, it’s worth checking for discomfort, such as hunger, a dirty nappy, or signs of illness.5 If crying during sleep becomes frequent or intense, or if your baby seems unwell, speak to your GP or child health nurse.1
Why is my baby crying while feeding?
If your baby cries during feeds, it can be upsetting – but it’s often linked to something simple. Common causes include wind or gas, reflux, tiredness, or overstimulation.1,3,7 Some babies may be hungry but too upset to latch, while others might cry because they’re full, uncomfortable, or just need a break.3 Try burping mid-feed, switching positions, or feeding in a quiet, dimly lit space. If your baby regularly cries during feeds, refuses to eat, or seems in pain, it’s a good idea to check in with your GP or child health nurse.1,5
Teething and crying
Teething can be a tough time for babies – and for parents! If your baby is teething and won’t stop crying, it’s likely they’re feeling sore, unsettled, or just in need of extra comfort. Common signs include drooling, chewing on hands or toys, swollen gums, and disrupted sleep or feeds.5
To soothe teething discomfort:
- Offer chilled teething toys or a clean, damp washcloth to chew on.5
- Try extra cuddles, skin-to-skin contact, or gentle rocking.3,6
- Breastfeeding or bottle feeding can help calm them, even if they’re not hungry.3
- A warm bath or baby-safe massage may help them relax.3,6
If your baby seems inconsolable or in pain, speak to your GP or pharmacist about safe pain relief options. Avoid teething gels unless recommended by a healthcare professional.1
How to calm a crying baby
When your baby is crying and nothing seems to work, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Thankfully, there are strategies that can help:3,5,6,8
- Check the basics: Are they hungry, tired, uncomfortable, or due for a nappy change?
- Cuddle or hold them close: Your warmth and voice can be soothing.
- Swaddle (if they’re not yet rolling): Helps babies feel secure.
- Offer a dummy: Sucking can be calming, even if they’re not hungry.
- Try skin-to-skin contact: Great for bonding and comfort.
- Play soft music or white noise: Fans, static, or gentle tunes can help.
- Give a warm bath: Follow with a gentle massage to help them relax.
- Spend time outdoors: Natural sights, sounds, and fresh air can help reset and soothe both baby and caregiver.
If they’re still unsettled, holding your baby close and speaking gently can help them feel safe. Feeling stressed is a normal reaction, and it’s okay to place your baby in a safe space and take a short break – your wellbeing matters too.1,5
When to seek support
If you’re unsure or concerned about your baby’s crying, speak to your GP or child health nurse.
If you’re in WA, you can also reach out to Ngala, a WA-based parenting support service. Call their Parenting Line on (08) 9368 9368 for reassurance or advice, or attend an early parenting group at various centres across the Perth metro area.
For national support, you can call Pregnancy, Birth and Baby, a national Australian Government service, on 1800 882 436 or use their video call service to speak directly with a maternal child health nurse. This free service is available 7 days a week, from 7am to midnight (AET). You can also call the Healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222, available 24/7.
