Five Types of Baby Cries and What They Might Mean?
Wondering why your newborn is crying? This guide will help you understand the different types of baby cries and what they might indicate, from hunger to discomfort, and how to soothe your baby.
Types of Baby Cries:
- Hungry Cry
What it sounds like: Initially, a hungry baby’s cries are long, low-pitched, and repetitive, with long pauses. As hunger increases, the cries become longer, louder, and the pauses shorter.
What it means: Your baby needs to eat. Newborns typically need to breastfeed or formula-feed every two to four hours.
What to do: Offer the breast or bottle promptly when you notice early hunger cues, such as clenching fists, smacking lips, or turning their head towards anything that touches their face. Responding early can prevent intense crying and reduce air swallowing, which can cause discomfort.
Related: Is It Normal For My Baby To Cry All The Time?
2. Discomfort/Fussy Cry
What it sounds like: Mild, on-and-off crying that increases in intensity over time.
What it means: Your baby may be tired, have a dirty diaper, feel too hot or cold, or be overstimulated. Fussiness is common during the late afternoon or early evening, known as the “witching hour.”
What to do: Check for a dirty diaper, adjust the room temperature, or change your baby’s environment. Holding them, walking around, or using a stroller or swing can help. Observe patterns to identify triggers, such as after feeding or in noisy places.
3. Sick Cry
What it sounds like: A tired, weak cry that doesn’t stop despite efforts to comfort your baby.
What it means: Persistent, unusual crying may indicate illness.
What to do: Trust your instincts and contact your healthcare provider if your baby’s cries seem unusual or if you notice signs like refusing to eat, lethargy, rash, or fever over 100.4°F in newborns.
4. Pain Cry
What it sounds like: A sudden, high-pitched shriek that repeats as the baby feels waves of pain.
What it means: Pain-related crying could be due to ear infections, gas, or diaper rash.
What to do: Look for obvious pain causes and consult your baby’s doctor.
5. Colic Cry
What it sounds like: Intense, painful cries that start suddenly and continue for hours, often at the same time each day. Your baby may stiffen their legs and arms, clench their fists, and arch their back.
What it means: Colic is characterized by crying for at least three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks or more. The cause is unknown but may involve digestive issues or other factors.
What to do: Comfort your baby and wait for the colic phase to pass, usually by 3 to 4 months old. Burp your baby after feeding, and consider dietary changes if you suspect a cow’s milk protein allergy. Consult your doctor for guidance.
Understanding Baby Sounds
Some researchers suggest that babies use specific sounds to communicate needs before they cry. The Dunstan Baby Language theory proposes five “words” all babies use:
- “Neh” (hunger)
- “Eh” (need to burp)
- “Owh/Oah” (tired)
- “Eair/Eargghh” (cramps/low belly pain)
- “Heh” (physical discomfort)
Studies have shown these sounds can be accurate in identifying baby needs, though more research is needed.
Conclusion
Understanding your baby’s cries will become easier as you get to know their patterns and needs. Apps are also available to help decode baby cries. If your baby is inconsolable, try soothing techniques like offering a pacifier, wearing them in a carrier, swaddling, or playing white noise. Remember to take care of yourself, too – it’s okay to take a break when needed.
By learning to interpret different types of baby cries, you can better respond to your baby’s needs and ease their distress.
