Crying is part of a baby's normal development. An infant does not yet have other means of communication: crying is therefore their primary mode of expression to signal a need or discomfort.
According to several health institutions such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Health Service, infants cry on average between 1 and 3 hours a day during the first weeks of life.
Understanding the possible reasons for crying often helps to better meet the baby's needs and reassure parents.
In this guide, you will discover:
• why babies cry
• what are the most frequent causes
• when crying is considered normal
• when it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional.
Why do babies cry?
Crying is a natural means of communication for infants. It allows the baby to express different needs.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, crying can notably signal:
• hunger
• fatigue
• discomfort (wet diaper, heat, cold)
• a need for contact or comfort
• digestive pain.
Every baby also has their own temperament: some infants cry more than others.
The most frequent causes of crying in infants
Hunger
Hunger is one of the most frequent causes of crying in young babies.
Infants have small stomachs and often need to eat several times a day. Crying can occur when the baby needs to be fed.
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Fatigue
A tired baby can also cry.
Infants need many periods of sleep throughout the day. When they are overstimulated or have difficulty falling asleep, crying can occur.
You can also consult our guide on
👉 see also our guide: newborn sleep
Colic
Some infants experience prolonged crying episodes called infant colic.
These cries often appear at the end of the day and can last for several hours.
According to the National Health Service, colic is common during the first months of life and generally disappears with time.
👉 See also our article: infant colic: understanding and relieving baby's cries.
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Digestive reflux
Infant gastroesophageal reflux can sometimes cause discomfort and lead to crying, especially after meals.
The Mayo Clinic explains that regurgitation is common in infants because their digestive system is still immature.
👉 See also our guide: infant reflux: understanding baby's regurgitations.
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The need for contact
Babies often need to be reassured.
Physical contact, carrying, or parents' voices can help calm a crying infant.
According to the World Health Organization, proximity and interactions with parents play an important role in a baby's emotional development.
Evening crying: a common phenomenon
Many parents notice that their baby cries more at the end of the day.
This phenomenon is sometimes called evening crying.
According to several early childhood specialists, these cries may be related to:
• accumulated fatigue during the day
• significant stimulation
• the immaturity of the infant's nervous system.
This phenomenon is generally temporary and decreases with age.
When should you worry?
In most cases, crying is part of normal infant behavior.
However, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional if the baby presents:
• unusual or very intense crying
• fever
• difficulty feeding
• frequent vomiting
• poor weight gain.
A doctor or pediatrician can then check that everything is fine.
How to soothe a crying baby?
Several simple gestures can sometimes help calm an infant:
• check if they are hungry
• change their diaper
• rock them gently
• carry them close
• talk softly to them.
Every baby is different: it may be necessary to try different approaches to find what reassures them most.
Crying can be difficult for parents
Prolonged crying can be exhausting, especially when parents are tired.
Healthcare professionals remind us that it is important to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed.
If crying becomes difficult to bear, it may be helpful to:
• safely place the baby in their crib
• take a few minutes to calm down
• ask a loved one for help.
It is important never to shake a baby, as this can cause serious injuries.
FAQ – infant crying
Is it normal for a baby to cry a lot?
Yes. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, infants often cry for several hours a day during the first few weeks.
At what age does crying decrease?
Crying often peaks around 6 to 8 weeks, then gradually decreases.
Do all babies cry the same amount?
No. Every infant is different: some cry little, others more.
Sources
The information presented in this article is based on the recommendations and publications of several health institutions:
• American Academy of Pediatrics
Important information
The information presented in this article is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional.
In case of doubt concerning an infant's health, it is recommended to consult a doctor, pediatrician or midwife.
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