Baby and Infant Care
As a new parent, there's nothing more distressing than when your baby won’t stop crying. The sound can make you feel helpless, frustrated, and anxious – all at once. But remember, you're not alone, and crying is a natural way for babies to communicate their needs.
1. Hunger
Babies need to eat frequently, often every 2-3 hours in the early months. A baby’s small stomach can’t hold much, so hunger is one of the most common reasons they cry. Signs your baby is hungry include lip-smacking, rooting (turning their head as if searching for food), or putting their hands in their mouth. Feeding your baby at the first signs of hunger can often prevent a full-on cry.
2. Dirty Diaper
A wet or soiled diaper can make your baby feel uncomfortable and irritated. Babies have sensitive skin, and prolonged exposure to a dirty diaper can lead to diaper rash, which is uncomfortable. Check their diaper when they’re fussy, and a quick change might just do the trick!
3. Fatigue or Overstimulation
Newborns need a lot of sleep – up to 16-18 hours a day – but they don’t always know how to fall asleep on their own. Crying can be their way of saying, “I’m tired!” or “I’m overwhelmed!”
4. Gassy
If your baby has gas bubbles after feeding, they might feel uncomfortable, which could make them cry. Babies often swallow air while feeding, and this air can get trapped in their stomach, causing discomfort. Gently patting or rubbing your baby’s back can help release any trapped gas.
5. Temperature Sensitivity
Babies are sensitive to temperature changes. They may cry if they’re too hot or too cold. To check, feel the back of their neck; if it’s sweaty, they’re likely too warm, and if it’s cool to the touch, they may need an extra layer. Dress them in breathable fabrics, and adjust their layers as needed to ensure they’re comfortable.
6. Teething Discomfort
If your baby is around 4-7 months old, teething can cause discomfort, leading to fussiness, drooling, and chewing on everything in sight. Massaging their gums or offering a teething ring can provide relief.
7. Need for Comfort
Sometimes, babies just need to feel close to you. They’ve spent nine months hearing your heartbeat, and being held can make them feel safe and secure. Skin-to-skin contact, rocking, or simply talking to your baby in a soothing voice can help calm them down. Don’t worry about spoiling your baby by holding them – at this age, they need all the comfort they can get.
8. Health Issues or Illness
If your baby’s cry sounds different than usual or is persistent despite trying everything, it’s possible they could be in pain or feeling unwell. Look out for signs of illness, such as fever, rashes, unusual lethargy, or trouble breathing. If you're concerned, trust your instincts and consult a healthcare provider.
What if Nothing Seems to Work?
Sometimes, even after checking all possible causes, babies may still cry for what seems like no reason. This could be due to colic – unexplained crying episodes in babies, typically occurring in the late afternoon or evening. While the exact cause of colic is unknown, it usually peaks around 6 weeks of age and improves by 3-4 months.
If you suspect your baby has colic, here are a few soothing techniques to try:
White Noise: Sounds that mimic the womb (like a fan or a white noise machine) can be very comforting.
Rhythmic Movements: Try gentle swaying, rocking, or a car ride.
Pacifier: Sucking can be soothing for babies, so offering a pacifier might help.
Swaddle: Swaddling can make babies feel snug and secure, helping to reduce crying.
Take Care of Yourself Too
Caring for a crying baby can be exhausting and overwhelming. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or even a professional nanny service if you need a break. Remember that crying is often just a phase, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.
Trust your instincts, and try not to stress if it takes time to find what works best for your baby. If you need extra support, consider finding a nanny to help. An experienced nanny can bring comfort and relief, giving you a much-needed break while your baby is in caring hands. Remember, you don’t have to do it all on your own!
Everything you need to know about joining Aunty SG as a babysitter or confinement nanny.
