7 Reasons Why Your New Born Will Cry

Crying, as all new mums will realize, is a part of life for every baby. As you figure it out along the way, you will learn that apart from crying being their natural ways of communicating, the following reasons just might be part of the reasons they cry:

1. Baby is hungry

Every first time mum thinks that once her baby starts to cry, that means she’s hungry. It may not be entirely true as crying may mean many other things, however, learning to recognize the signs of hunger will help you start feeding your baby before the crying stage. Some signs to watch out for are fussing, lip smacking, rooting (a newborn reflex that makes babies turn their head toward your hand when you stroke their cheek), and putting their hands close to or in their mouth.

2. Baby needs to burp

Burping, contrary to belief is not mandatory, but it helps. If your baby cries after a feeding, a good burp may be all she needs. Babies tend to swallow air when they breastfeed or suck from a bottle, and this brings discomfort if the air isn’t released. Remember, babies are different, as some are disturbed by air in their tummy, while others may not be moved by it.

3. Baby wants to feel mummy’s heartbeat

As hormonal as you are, so is your baby. She’s been in the amniotic fluid for 9 months, and gotten so used to your heart beat. Now that she’s out of you, she is going to need a lot of cuddling and reassurance. Newborns need physical contact for comfort, if every other thing is in order with your baby, you may realize that all she wants is to be snuggled close to your chest. Some African parents worry that they will “spoil” baby if they hold her too much, but during the first few months of life that’s impossible. Some babies don’t seem to need that much physical contact. If your baby needs a lot of holding, a baby sling which allows you to keep your baby close while leaving your hands free for other tasks, is quite helpful.

4. Baby might be too cold or too hot

In Africa, we tend to wrap up baby with so many layers of clothes, in an effort to protect the baby from cold. That is important to do,  but sometimes, we take it too far. This little human is human and will feel uncomfortable. Newborns like to be bundled up and kept warm – but not too warm. It is good to remember that babies are less likely to complain about being too warm than about being too cold, and they won’t cry about it as vigorously, but they will still cry. Find what temperature soothes your baby and stick to it.

5. Baby is tired

You may wonder what makes babies tired, all they do is eat, sleep and eat again. Babies often find it hard to get to sleep, particularly if they’re over-tired. You’ll learn your baby’s sleep cues soon after birth, so just give your self some time. Whining and crying at the slightest thing, staring blankly into space, and being quiet and still are just three examples. Lots of attention from doting visitors may over-stimulate your baby and make it hard for her to sleep. Try taking her to a quiet room before bed to help her calm down or minimize the visitors that you have.

6. Baby needs a nappy change

Most babies may protest if they have a wet or soiled nappy because their skin may feel irritated. A regular change may help soothe your crying baby, as this also helps to reduce the tendencies of nappy or diaper rash.

7. Baby has stomach gas or colic problems

Tummy troubles associated with gas or colic can lead to lots of crying. Even if your baby isn’t colicky and has never been fussy after eating, an occasional bout of gas pain can make her miserable until it passes. If you suspect gas, try putting her on her back, grasping her feet, and moving her legs in a gentle bicycling motion.