Why Do Newborns Cry Without Tears?

Q: Why do newborns cry without tears? A: MYTH: Newborn babies do not have tears when they cry. FACT: Most newborn babies do have tears while crying. Recent studies have shown that full term newborn babies do have tears when crying. Since the amount of tears produced is less than that of an adult, it is difficult to see tears rolling down from their eyes. Tear production in most newborn babies will increase as they grow reaching adult levels when they are 1-2 months old. Even premature babies make tears but in much less quantities than a full term baby. If a newborn has red, dry or irritated eye(s) then it could be a symptom of an infection or inadequate tear production. Call your baby's doctor for a consultation or appointment.
Q. My daughter is three months old today and she still does not have tears. She cries and nothing comes out... Is this normal and if so could you tell me when they should develop tears? Ashley, Hapeville, GA

A. I once had a patient who was five years old before he first had tears. When I asked him why, he said that he never had anything to cry about before. { Just kidding }

Not to make light of a possible medical problem, but not making tears is rarely a true medical problem, especially since you don't mention other symptoms.

Newborns start making tears when they are about two weeks old, but often it is just enough to keep their eyes moist and not enough to make real tears that you can see when they cry. Infants often don't develop real tears that you can see until they are much older and about seven or eight months old.

If your baby truly wasn't making any tears, then her eyes would likely be very red, dry, and irritated. This could be caused by a problem with the tear glands (the lacrimal glands) or the lacrimal ducts that carry the tears to the eye. In that case, you would want to see a Pediatric Optholmologist as soon as possible for an evaluation.

Other eye problems that infants can have include:

blocked tear ducts (dacryostenosis), with increased tearing

of their

baby crying

Why Babies Cry

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Seven reasons babies cry and how to soothe them

Approved by the BabyCentre Medical Advisory Board

Why do babies cry? My baby's crying - what can I do?

Why do babies cry?

All babies cry sometimes. They have to. Even entirely healthy newborns will cry for somewhere between one and three hours each day. Unable to do anything for themselves, babies rely on someone else to provide them with the food, warmth, and comfort that they need. Crying is a baby's way of communicating one of those needs. As a new parent, it can sometimes be difficult to work out what your baby is telling you - is she hungry, cold, thirsty, bored, looking for a cuddle? In the early days, when you have not yet learned to work out what your baby needs, this crying can be upsetting. However, you will gradually begin to recognise your baby's different crying patterns and, as you get to know her better, will be able to anticipate her needs.

As babies grow, they gradually learn other ways of communicating with us, too. They get better at eye contact, making noises, and even smiling, all of which reduce the need for crying. The most common reasons babies cry are listed below. If you have a baby who is difficult to soothe, try working your way down the list. That way, you can reassure yourself that you have tried to meet her needs as well as you possibly can.

 I need food Hunger is the most common reason a new baby will cry. The younger your baby is, the more likely it is that she is crying because she is hungry. The exception to this is in the first day or two after birth, when some babies feed very little. If you are breastfeeding, you may well be aware of this, as the very concentrated early milk, colostrum, is produced in small amounts and you notice when the milk "comes in" around the third day. A baby's small stomach cannot hold very much, so if your baby cries, try offering her some milk, as it may well be that she is hungry. She might not stop crying immediately, but let her keep feeding if she wants to, and she will gradually be soothed as her stomach fills up. If your baby has been fed and is still crying, however, perhaps she is expressing the next need.

I need to be comfortable Babies will very sensibly protest if their clothes are too tight or if a soiled nappy is bothering them. Some babies don't seem to mind if their nappies are full - it just feels warm and comfortable to them - while others will call out to be changed immediately, especially if some tender skin is being irritated. Checking your baby's nappy and changing it may meet her needs, so this is always worth trying. It also gives you an opportunity to check that a nappy tab isn't too tight or that there isn't something else about her clothing making her uncomfortable.

I need to be warm - and not too hot or too cold Some newborns hate having their nappy changed or being bathed - they are not used to the feel of the air on their skin and much prefer to be bundled up and warm. If your baby is like this, you will soon learn how to perform a nappy change quickly so that you can calm her down again. Take care not to overdress your baby, though, so that she gets too hot. A good rule to follow is that she needs to wear one more layer of clothing than you do to be comfortable.

In the cot or Moses basket, try using a sheet and cellular blankets as bedding, rather than a duvet, so you can add and remove layers as necessary. You can check whether your baby is too hot or too cold by feeling her stomach: if she's too hot, remove a blanket, if she's cold, add one. Don't be guided by her hands or feet, as it is normal for them to feel slightly cold. Keep your baby's room at a temperature of around 18 degrees C / 64 degrees F, and put her down to sleep on her back with her feet at the end of the cot so that she can't wriggle too far down under the blankets and get too hot that way.

I need to be held Some babies need a great deal of cuddling and reassurance. An older child may be soothed by seeing you in the

room or hearing your voice, but new babies often need close physical contact for comfort. If you've fed your baby and changed her nappy, you may find that she now simply wants to be held. Some parents worry that they will "spoil" their baby if they hold her too much, but during the first few months of life that's impossible. While some babies don't seem to need that much physical contact, others want to be held almost all the time. If your baby needs a lot of holding, you might like to try a baby sling, which allows you to keep your baby close while leaving your hands free for other tasks; this may be a solution that keeps you both happy.

I need a rest It is easy to assume that babies will fall asleep whenever they need to, wherever they are, simply because so many of them do. However, if your baby has been receiving a lot of attention - perhaps you've had a busy day with hordes of visitors round - she may become overstimulated and then find it hard to "switch off" and settle. Newborns can find it difficult to cope with too much stimulation at once - the lights, the noise, being passed from one adoring relative to the next - and can become overwhelmed by it all. Many parents have found that their baby cries more than usual when relatives come to stay, or sometimes just towards the end of each day. If there seems to be no specific reason for your baby's crying, she may just be saying, "I've had enough". If you can take her somewhere calm and quiet, gradually withdrawing the stimulation, she may express her feelings by crying for a while and then eventually settling to sleep.

I need something to make me feel better If you've fed your baby and checked that she's comfortable, but she's still continuing to cry, you may wonder if she is ill or in pain. First-time parents often find it difficult to tell whether their baby is crying purely because she's an unhappy baby by nature (and some are, as it takes them a long time to adjust to being in the world) or whether there's something genuinely wrong. A baby who is ill often cries in a different tone to her usual cry - it may be more urgent or high-pitched. Equally, for a baby who normally cries frequently, an unusual quietness may be a sign that she's not well. The most important thing to remember is that nobody knows your baby as well as you do. If you feel that there may be something wrong, give your GP, midwife, or health visitor a call. Health professionals will always take your concerns seriously, and it may be reassuring for you to know that there isn't a physical cause for your baby's crying. Always call your doctor if your baby has difficulty breathing through the crying, or if the crying is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation. See our article on when to call the doctor for more guidance.

I need something ... but I don't know what

Sometimes you might not be able to figure out what's wrong when your baby cries. Many newborns go through patches of fretfulness and are not easily comforted. The unhappiness can range from a few minutes of hard-toconsole crying to several hours at a stretch, an almost constant state of crying that is sometimes called colic. Colic is defined as inconsolable crying for at least three hours a day, for at least three days a week. Many parents find it very difficult to cope with a baby who has colic, and it can put a strain on the whole family. There is no magic cure for colic, but it rarely lasts for more than three months. If you can hold on to the fact that your baby will grow out of it, that may help. See our article on coping with colic for more strategies on how to deal with this distressing condition.

My baby's crying - what can I do?

There are things you can try to comfort a crying baby. Not all of them will work for all babies, so you need to gradually get to know your own baby and her particular personality to find out what works for her and for you.

Wrap her up and hold her tight Newborns show a definite preference for feeling snug and secure, just as they were in the womb, so you might like to try swaddling your baby in a blanket to see if she likes that. Many parents also find that holding their baby close, especially when she can hear their heartbeat, or putting her in a baby sling is soothing. Other babies find swaddling too restrictive and respond better to other forms of reassurance such as being rocked or sung to.

Find a constant rhythm In the womb, your baby could hear the regular beat of your heart: that's one of the reasons many babies continue to like being held close. However, other regular, repetitive noises can also have a calming effect. You could try playing gentle music or singing a lullaby. Many parents find that if their baby can hear the steady rhythm of a washing machine or the "white noise" of a vacuum cleaner or hairdryer, that will soon lull her off to sleep. (Never put your baby on top of a washing machine or clothes dryer - always put her on the floor next to it.)

Rock-a-bye baby Most babies love to be gently rocked, and you may find that your baby is calmed by this, too, whether you walk around rocking her or sit with her in a rocking chair. Special baby swings can soothe some babies, while others are comforted by being in rather faster motion and drop off almost as soon as they're driven somewhere in a car.

Try a massage Giving your baby a massage or gently rubbing her back or tummy can help soothe her. If she seems to have pains

with wind, try feeding her in a more upright position and winding her after a feed by holding her against your shoulder. Babies who have colic may sometimes be soothed by having their tummies rubbed, and it may make you feel better to know that at least you are trying to do something to help your baby's distress.

Let her suck on something In some newborns, the need to suck is very strong and sucking a dummy or (clean) finger or thumb can bring great comfort. "Comfort sucking" can steady a baby's heart rate, relax her stomach, and help her settle.

Don't demand too much of yourself A baby who cries almost constantly will do herself no lasting harm, but may cause a great deal of stress and worry for her parents. If your baby seems pretty unhappy to be here and resists every effort that you make to cheer her up or calm her down, it can be hard not to feel rejected as well as frustrated. Parents sometimes blame themselves, feeling that it is their incompetence as parents that is causing the crying, but this is rarely the case. If you know that your baby's needs have been met, that there is nothing physically wrong causing your baby to cry, and if you've tried everything you can think of to calm her but nothing's worked, it's time to take care of yourself so that you don't become overwhelmed. Here are a few suggestions:

Take deep breaths.

Put your baby down somewhere and let her cry for a while out of your hearing.

If it helps, put on some quiet music and let yourself relax for ten minutes.

Call a friend or relative and get some support. Give yourself a break and let someone else take over for a while.

Talk to your health visitor about local support groups or mother-and-baby groups where you can share your feelings and discuss ways of coping with the crying with other new parents.

If it all gets too much, call one of the telephone helplines. The Cry-sis helpline on

020 7404 5011

020 7404 5011 is for parents of babies who have sleep problems and / or who cry excessively. The helpline is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week for emotional support and practical advice.

 Remind yourself that nothing is wrong with your baby and that crying in itself won't hurt her. Sometimes simply accepting that you have a baby who cries a great deal can help, in that you don't wear yourself out looking for reasons for the crying, blaming yourself for it, or offering endless new remedies which don't work.

Remind yourself that this is a phase and it will pass.

Being the parent of a newborn is hard work. Being the parent of a newborn who cries a great deal is even harder work. Get help and support when you need it, rather than letting things build up. And take comfort from the fact that each day, as your baby grows, she learns new ways of being able to communicate her needs to you. Gradually, as she does so, the crying will stop.

12 reasons babies cry and how to soothe them

by Dana Dubinsky Reviewed by the BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board Last updated: January 2011
En espaol
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Highlights

1. Hunger 2. A dirty diaper 3. Needs sleep 4. Wants to be held 5. Tummy troubles (gas, colic, and more) 6. Needs to burp 7. Too cold or too hot 8. Something small 9. Teething 10. Wants less stimulation 11. Wants more stimulation 12. Not feeling well What to do if your baby's still crying

There's no getting around it: Babies cry. It's how they communicate hunger, pain, fear, a need for sleep, and more. So how are parents supposed to know what their baby is trying to tell them? It can be tricky to interpret your childs cries, especially at first. Here are the most common reasons babies cry. If your little one is wailing and you don't know why, work your way down the list. Chances are you'll find something that helps.

1. Hunger
This is probably the first thing you think of when your baby cries. Learning to recognize the signs of hunger will help you start your baby's feedings before the crying stage. Some signs to watch for in newborns: fussing, smacking of lips, rooting (a newborn reflex that causes babies to turn their head toward your hand when you stroke their cheek), and putting their hands to their mouth.

2. A dirty diaper
Some babies let you know right away when they need to be changed. Others can tolerate a dirty diaper for quite a while. Either way, this one is easy to check and simple to remedy.

3. Needs sleep
Aren't babies lucky? When they're tired they can simply go to sleep anytime, anywhere. Or so adults like to think. In reality, it's harder for them than you might think. Instead of nodding off, babies may fuss and cry, especially if they're overly tired. Parents' voices We thought our daughter was colicky for the first five weeks of life, until we read about how babies get really cranky if they're exhausted. After we started putting her to sleep as soon as she yawned the first time at any time of the day, she cried a lot less and had fewer problems with gas. Anonymous I've noticed that if my baby starts crying after being played with, fed, and changed, and she's been up for a while, she is overtired! I just hold her close, talk to her in a soft voice, and let her cry. She doesn't cry hard when I hold her like that. She makes funny fussy noises with her eyes closed. Before long, she's sound asleep. Stefanie My 2 -month-old is so interested in everything that she doesn't want to stop being part of it by falling asleep. Yet she's tired and cranky at the same time. Minimizing sensory input sometimes helps her feel like she's not "missing something" by settling down. (And then there are the times when she's just going to cry no matter what I do.) Anonymous

4. Wants to be held
Babies need a lot of cuddling. They like to see their parents' faces, hear their voices, and listen to their heartbeats, and can even detect their unique smell. Crying can be their way of asking to be held close. You may wonder if you'll spoil your baby by holding him so much, but during the first few months of life that isn't possible. To give your arms some relief, try wearing your baby in a front carrier or sling.

Parents' voices I like to lightly wrap my daughter in a soft blanket, hold her in a nursing position and lightly stroke her face and head. She loves feeling my hands in her hair and calms down pretty quickly. Tiffany My son loves to hear my voice, so when he cries uncontrollably, I hold him close to my chest and tell him that Mommy is here and will protect him. Within minutes, he is sleeping in my arms! Jey

5. Tummy troubles (gas, colic, and more)

Tummy troubles associated with gas or colic can lead to lots of crying. In fact, the rather mysterious condition called colic is defined as inconsolable crying for at least three hours a day, at least three days a week, at least three weeks in a row. If your baby often fusses and cries right after being fed, he may be feeling some sort of tummy pain. Many parents swear by over-the-counter anti-gas drops for babies or gripe water (made from herbs and sodium bicarbonate). Get your doctor's okay before using either of these. For more help, discover more than 20 strategies for soothing a colicky baby.

Milestones

Record the moments that matter in your baby's amazing development.

Even if your baby isn't colicky and has never been fussy after eating, an occasional bout of gas pain can make him miserable until he works it out. If you suspect gas, try something simple to eliminate it such as putting him on his back, holding his feet, and moving his legs in a gentle bicycling motion. Discover other possible causes of babies abdominal pain, including reflux, stomach flu, milk allergy, lactose intolerance, constipation, and intestinal blockage. Parents' voices One time when my daughter was 9 months old she cried inconsolably for two hours. She had never done that before (nursing was always the answer to everything, but this time she wouldn't even nurse) and we had to catch a crosscountry flight. The doctor told me to take her to a nearby clinic. While we waited in the exam room, she let out a big fart, and after that she was fine. It was just gas. Kate When my daughter was a baby she was gassy a lot, and would scream and cry in pain. I would give her some infant gas drops, lay her on my bed on her back, and gently push her knees up to her belly in a rocking motion and sing a little song. Soon she would let out some farts and be fine. Wife & mommy of two

If your baby is wearing any kind of pants, especially with a somewhat snug elastic waist, try pulling the waistband away from the belly to see if it helps. Sometimes that little bit of pressure hurts their tummy. Mom of 2 Just found out why my baby has been crying badly for the last day and a half he was constipated! He finally passed a 4-inch poop that was very, very hard. Suppositories work wonders. txblondetori

6. Needs to burp
Burping isn't mandatory. But if your baby cries after a feeding, a good burp may be all he needs. Babies swallow air when they breastfeed or suck from a bottle, and if the air isn't released it may cause some discomfort. Some babies are intensely bothered by having air in their tummy, while others don't seem to burp or need to be burped much at all. Parents' voices My little one often cries because he has a difficult time burping after a feed, even with back rubbing and patting. What I found helps is some "tummy time." He'll often let out a great big burp after a few minutes on his tummy. Anonymous I can't count how many times I've burped (or tried unsuccessfully to burp) my little one when she's fussy after a feeding. Some more walking around and patting on the back will sometimes let loose a HUGE belch no wonder she was crying! NovPiglet

7. Too cold or too hot

When your baby feels chilly, such as when you remove his clothes to change a diaper or clean his bottom with a cold wipe, he may protest by crying. Newborns like to be bundled up and kept warm but not too warm. As a rule, theyre comfortable wearing one more layer than you need to be comfortable. Babies are less likely to complain about being too warm than about being too cold, and they won't cry about it as vigorously.

8. Something small
Babies can be troubled by something as hard to spot as a hair wrapped tightly around a tiny toe or finger, cutting off circulation. (Doctors call this painful situation a "hair tourniquet," and it's one of the first things they look for if a baby seems to be crying for no reason.) Some babies are extra sensitive to things like scratchy clothing tags or fabric.And they can be very picky (understandably) about subtleties ranging from the position they're held in to the bottle you offer. Parents' voices It helps me to think, "What could be making me uncomfortable if I were her?" These are some weird ones I've come up with: Is my finger or foot stuck/cramped? Do I need to sit/lie differently? The pacifier tastes gross and needs washing. This tag or outfit is itchy. It's colder near the floor. The light is too bright and the TV is annoying I want soft music instead. cunnincl25

Something I've found that irritates my son is a hair wrapped around his penis. If you have a baby boy, be sure to check for hair in his diaper, since it is very sensitive down there. Anon My 2-month-old cried whenever we fed him. But sometimes he'd drink ravenously, so he was obviously hungry. The problem vanished when we switched to a different brand of nipple. Anonymous

9. Teething
Teething can be painful as each new tooth pushes through tender young gums. Some babies suffer more than others, but all are likely to be fussy and tearful at some point along the way. If your baby seems to be in pain and you're not sure why, try feeling his gums with your finger. You may be surprised to discover the hard nub of a baby tooth on its way in. On average, the first tooth breaks through between 4 and 7 months, but it can happen earlier. Find out more about teething and how to ease the pain.

10. Wants less stimulation

Babies learn from the stimulation of the world around them, but sometimes they have a hard time processing it all the lights, the noise, being passed from hand to hand. Crying can be a baby's way of saying, "I've had enough." Many newborns enjoy being swaddled. It seems to make them feel more secure when the world gets overwhelming. If your baby's too old for swaddling or doesn't like it, try retreating to a serene spot and letting your baby vent for a while to manage a meltdown. Parents' voices Swaddling is a huge help, especially to infants. Being tightly wrapped mimics being in the womb and my daughter loved it. anonymous My 6-month-old gets very excited (overexcited would be the right word) after we have fun together. He starts laughing at the most ridiculous sounds and when everything is quiet he starts to cry. That's when we sit on the bed with propped pillows and I read to him in a very low and soothing tone. He calms down in no time and goes to sleep! wajiha06

11. Wants more stimulation

A "demanding" baby may be outgoing and eager to see the world. And often the only way to stop the crying and fussing is to stay active. This can be exhausting for you! Try "wearing" your baby in a sling, front carrier, or backpack. (Watch our video on baby carriers.) Plan plenty of activities. Hang out with other parents with babies. Go on regular outings to kid-friendly places, whether that's your local playground, a children's museum, or the zoo. Parents' voices My 7-month-old wants constant activity going on around him. If I put him on the floor with his toys while I work on the computer, he fusses. He's happiest when I pop him in a baby carrier while I wash dishes, do laundry, and other housework. He's also especially peaceful in stores and other public places because he's so interested in and curious about the world. Anonymous

12. Not feeling well

If you've met your baby's basic needs and comforted him and he's still crying, he could be coming down with something. You may want to check his temperature to rule out a fever and be alert for other signs of illness. The cry of a sick baby tends to be distinct from one caused by hunger or frustration. If your baby's crying "just doesn't sound right," trust your instincts and call or see a doctor.

What to do if your baby's still crying

Full tummy? Check. Clean diaper? Check. Fever-free? Check. So why is your baby crying? Babies have their own good reasons. But even the wisest parents can't read their babies' mind and babies don't have the words to tell us what's wrong. Fortunately, you can offer comfort without knowing the cause of distress. You'll find lots of tried-and-true methods in our article on what to do when your baby cries for "no reason."

Crying baby: What to do when your newborn cries

Newborn crying jags are inevitable, but a crying baby can test your patience all the same. Here's help soothing a crying baby and renewing your ability to handle the tears.
By Mayo Clinic staff

The dream: Your baby sleeps through the night after just a few weeks, gurgles happily while you run errands and only fusses when hunger strikes. The reality: Your baby's favorite playtime is after the 2 a.m. feeding. Crankiness peaks when you're out and about. You had no idea a crying baby could keep the tears flowing for so long. Sound familiar? In any given day, the average newborn cries for one to four hours. Find out why babies cry and how to handle a crying baby.

Decoding the tears

A crying baby is trying to tell you something. Your job is to figure out why your baby is crying and what if anything you can do about it. Consider what your baby couild be thinking:

I'm hungry. Most newborns eat every few hours round-the-clock. Some babies become frantic when hunger strikes. They might get so worked up by the time the feeding begins that they gulp air with the milk, which can cause spitting up, trapped gas and more crying. To avoid such frenzy, respond to early signs of hunger. If your baby begins to gulp during the feeding, take a break.

I need to burp. During and after each feeding, take time to burp your baby. I'm wet. For some babies, a wet or soiled diaper is a surefire way to trigger tears. Gas or indigestion can have the same effect. Check your baby's diaper often to make sure it's clean and dry.

I'm tired. Tired babies are often fussy and your baby might need more sleep than you think. Newborns often sleep up to 16 hours a day. Some newborns sleep even more.

I'd rather be bundled. Some babies feel most secure in a swaddle wrap. Snugly wrap your baby in a receiving blanket or other small, lightweight blanket.

I want to move. Sometimes a rocking session or walk through the house is enough to soothe a crying baby. In other cases, a change of position is all that's needed. Keeping safety precautions in mind, try a baby swing or vibrating infant seat. Weather permitting, head outdoors with the stroller. You might even want to buckle up for a ride in the car.

I'm lonely. Sometimes simply seeing you, hearing your voice or being cuddled can stop the tears. Gentle massage or light pats on the back might soothe a crying baby, too.

I'm hot. A baby who's too hot is likely to be uncomfortable. The same goes for a baby who's too cold. Add or remove a layer of clothing as needed.

I want to suck on something. Sucking is a natural reflex. For many babies, it's a comforting, soothing activity. If your baby isn't hungry, try a clean finger or pacifier.

I've had enough. Too much noise, movement or visual stimulation might drive your baby to tears. Move to a calmer environment or place your baby in the crib. White noise such as a recording of ocean waves or the monotonous sound of an electric fan or vacuum cleaner might help your crying baby relax.

It's just that time of day. Many babies have predictable periods of fussiness during the day. This kind of crying can help your baby get rid of excess energy. There may be little you can do but comfort your baby as the crying runs its course.

My tummy hurts. If you're breast-feeding your baby, the flavor of the milk might change in response to what you eat and drink. If you suspect that a certain food or drink is making your baby fussier than usual, avoid it for several days to see if it makes a difference.

Over time you might be able to identify your baby's needs by the way he or she is crying. For example, a hungry cry might be short and low-pitched, while a cry of pain might be a sudden, long, high-pitched shriek. Picking up on any patterns can help you better respond to your baby's cries.

Crying it out
If you've tried everything and your baby is still upset, consider letting your baby cry it out. While listening to your baby wail can be agonizing, keep in mind that some babies can't fall asleep without crying. Your baby might go to sleep more quickly if left to cry for a little while.

Why is my newborn baby crying? Interpreting your Baby's Cries 88

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By Robin

Crying Jules

The Secret Language of Babies: The Five Cries of Newborns

Priscilla Dunstan, who was featured on the Oprah show, claims she has a photographic memory for sound. She can hear textures, colors and a resonance in a voice. She used these skills with her newborn son and began to see patterns in his cries. She has used this new-found knowledge to research the cries of over 1000 babies and has found five distinct cries that are universal; she found that babies of different races and culture all have the same five cries. She claims this similarity is because all of the cries are based on reflexes, and since we all have the same reflexes the sounds are the same. The following five cries are similar, but if you listen carefully they can be distinguished. These five cries are only present in babies from 0-3 months old and are most pronounced during a baby's precry. When you've finished reading about all of the cries, test yourself with the baby cries below.

Cry #1: Neh="I'm hungry"

"Neh" is the "I'm hungry" cry of a newborn. It is based on the sucking reflex. A newborn has a strong sucking reflex, and when they combine this reflex with a cry the result is "neh". When you hear this cry, nurse or give your newborn a bottle.

Cry #2: Owh="I'm Sleepy"

The cry to express tiredness is "owh". The "owh" sound is based on the yawning reflex. The first "ow" sound can be long and pronounced. When you hear this cry help your baby go to sleep. We always found that the more tired our babies became the harder it was for them to go to sleep. Look for other clues of sleepiness: rubbing the eyes and yawning.

Cry #3: Heh="I'm experiencing discomfort"

The cry "heh" is used when a newborn is feeling discomfort. This sound is different than the "I'm hungry" cry because there is a strong "h" sound at the beginning. If you hear this cry in your newborn, they may need their diaper changed or be put in a new position.

Cry #4: Eair="I have lower gas"

When babies have lower gas pain they often pull their legs towards their chest and make the cry sound "eair". We always found that when our newborns had gas they liked a bit of pressure on their tummies. We would either lay them on our legs perpendicularly and rub their backs or hold them in the elbow of our arm with our elbow supporting their head and their legs straddling our arm. (Be sure that your babies head is always held securely.) This can also be a good time for a baby massage with slow circular motions on your baby's tummy. Gas tablets or medicines never worked for our girls.

Cry #5: Eh="I need to burp"

You'll know when your newborn baby needs to burp if you can hear the "eh" in his/her cry. This cry is short and is repeated over and over; "eh, eh, eh." When you hear this sound gently place your baby on your chest with their head over your shoulder and gently pat them on the back.

Helpful Tips
1. Your baby's cries are identified easier during the pre-cry stage before the baby become hysterical. Try to Listen, Decide and Act before the cries becomes too difficult to distinguish. 2. React to the dominant word. If you hear more than one word being said, pay the most attention to the most dominant sound/word. 3. If you can't understand the cry, change the position of your baby; e.g., put them over your knee, shoulder, or on your lap. 4. It's natural for babies to use more words than others. Don't worry if some words aren't being said as often. 5. Listen for the distinctive sound in each word, e.g., the "N" in "Neh". 6. If you can't understand the word and feel distressed, just comfort your baby as best you can and listen for the word next time.

The Dunstan Baby Language DVD: Learn more with this DVD by Priscilla Dunstan
How Babies Communicate

Babies are born with the ability to cry, which is how they communicate for a while. Your baby's cries generally tell you that something is wrong: an empty belly, a wet bottom, cold feet, being tired, or a need to be held and cuddled, etc.

Soon you'll be able to recognize which need your baby is expressing and respond accordingly. In fact, sometimes what a baby needs can be identified by the type of cry for example, the "I'm hungry" cry may be short and low-pitched, while "I'm upset" may sound choppy.

Your baby may also cry when overwhelmed by all of the sights and sounds of the world, or for no apparent reason at all. Don't be too upset when your baby cries and you aren't able to console him or her immediately: crying is one way babies shut out stimuli when they're overloaded.

Crying is a baby's main method of communication, but they're also capable of other, more subtle forms. Learning to recognize them is rewarding and can strengthen your bond with your baby.

A newborn can differentiate between the sound of a human voice and other sounds. Try to pay attention to how your little one responds to your voice, which he or she already associates with care: food, warmth, touch.

If your baby is crying in the bassinet, see how quickly your approaching voice quiets him or her. See how closely your baby listens when you talk in loving tones. Your baby may not yet coordinate looking and listening, but even when staring into the distance, he or she will be paying close attention to your voice as you speak. Your baby may subtly adjust body position or facial expression, or even move the arms and legs in time with your speech.

Sometime during your newborn's first month, you may get a glimpse of a first smile and perhaps hear that first laugh or giggle welcome additions to your baby's communication skills!

What Should I Do?

As soon as you hold your baby after birth, you'll begin to communicate with each other by exchanging your first glances, sounds, and touches. Babies quickly learn about the world through their senses.

As the days after birth pass, your newborn will become accustomed to seeing you and will begin to focus on your face. The senses of touch and hearing are especially important, though. Your baby will be curious about noises, but none more so than the spoken voice. Talk to your baby whenever you have the chance. Even though your baby doesn't understand what you're saying, your calm,

reassuring voice conveys safety. With almost every touch your newborn is learning about life, so provide lots of tender kisses, and your little one will find the world a soothing place.

Communicating with newborns is a matter of meeting their needs. Always respond to your newborn's cries babies cannot be spoiled with too much attention. Indeed, prompt responses to babies' cries lets them know that they're important and worthy of attention.

There will probably be times when you have met all needs, yet your infant continues to cry. Don't despair your baby may be overstimulated, or have gastric distress or too much energy and just need a good cry.

It's common for babies to have a fussy period at the same time every night, generally between early evening and midnight. This can be upsetting, but the good news is that it's short-lived most babies outgrow it at around 3 months of age.

You can try to soothe your baby. Some are comforted by motion, such as rocking or being walked back and forth across the room, while others respond to sounds, like soft music or the hum of a vacuum cleaner. It may take some time to find out what best comforts your baby during these stressful periods.

Should I Be Concerned?
Talk to your doctor if your baby seems to cry for an unusual length of time, if the cries sound odd to you, or if the crying is associated with decreased activity, poor feeding, or unusual breathing or movements. Your doctor will be able to reassure you or look for a medical reason for your baby's distress. Chances are there is nothing wrong, and knowing this can help you relax and stay calm when your baby is upset.

Here are some other reasons for prolonged crying:

The baby is ill. A baby who cries more when being held or rocked may be sick. Call

your doctor.

The baby has an eye irritation. A scratched cornea or "foreign body" in a baby's eye

can cause redness and tearing. Call your doctor.

The baby is in pain. An open diaper pin or other object could be hurting the baby's

skin. Take a close look everywhere, even each finger and toe (sometimes hair can get wrapped around a baby's tiny digits and cause pain). If you have any questions about your newborn's ability to see or hear, you should bring them to your doctor's attention immediately. Even newborns can be tested using sophisticated equipment, if necessary. The sooner a potential problem is caught, the better it can be treated

Reasons Why Babies Cry

Article Highlights

Even healthy newborns cry for about 1 to 3 hours everyday As babies learn other ways of communicating, it reduces the need for crying Hunger is the most common reason for crying in newborns

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THE CRIB MUMblings! COMMENT NOW RATE ARTICLE

It is absolutely normal for babies to cry. In fact, most newborns cry for at least one to three hours each day to draw your attention to fulfill their needs. Remember it's the only way they can communicate, so initially it could be difficult to interpret the exact need. But gradually, as you get used to the baby and her different crying patterns, you'll begin understand her better and anticipate her needs.

As babies grow, they gradually learn newer ways of communicating. They start making eye contact, begin to smile and make new noises - all of which reduce the need for crying. Here are the most common reasons why babies cry. If you have a baby who is difficult to soothe, there's no need to get stressed. Just make sure you've met her needs by working your way down the list.

Hunger
Hunger is one of the primary reasons why a new baby will cry. The younger your baby is, the more often she gets hungry and more frequently she will cry. A baby's small stomach cannot hold very much, so if your baby cries, try offering her some milk, as it may well be that

she is hungry. Though she may not be calmed immediately, let her continue feeding as long as she wants to, and she will gradually be soothed as her stomach fills up. If your baby is still crying on a full-stomach, perhaps she is expressing the next need.

Discomfort
The cold, uncomfortable feeling of a wet nappy may be another reason why your baby is crying. So a change in nappy could do the trick in stopping her cry. Checking your baby's nappy and changing it may meet her needs, so this is always worth trying. Tight uncomfortable clothes maybe another reason for crying. So to avoid this discomfort, make sure you put on loose, easy-to-breath-in clothing made of soft, child-friendly fabric.

Warmth
Its not unusual for babies to cry when they are being bathed or nappy changed- they do not like their body to be exposed to the air directly and prefer to be snug and kept warm instead. If your baby is like this, you will have to learn how to perform a quick nappy change so that you can calm her down again. However, take care not to overdress your baby that she gets too hot. A good rule to follow is that she needs to wear one more layer of clothing than you do to be comfortable. You can check whether your baby is too hot or too cold by feeling her stomach: if she's too hot, remove a blanket, if she's cold, add one. Don't be guided by her hands or feet, as it is normal for them to feel slightly cold. Keep your baby's room at a temperature of around 18 degrees C / 64 degrees F, and put her down to sleep on her back with her feet at the end of the cot so that she can't wriggle too far down under the blankets and get too hot that way.

Physical contact
Some babies take more time to get used to the world outside the mother's womb. That's why they want to be constantly cuddled and comforted. If you've fed your baby and changed her nappy, you may find that she now simply wants to be held. While some parents don't encourage this, fearing that it will "spoil" the baby, remember physical touch is very important and its something that will re-assure and calm the baby almost instantly. If your baby needs a lot of holding, you might like to try a baby sling, which allows you to keep your baby close while leaving your hands free for other tasks; this may be a solution that keeps you both happy.

Rest
It is expected of babies to naturally fall asleep wherever they are. But, if your baby has had a particularly "busy" day, with distractions and noise, upsetting her regular routine, she may become excited and then find it difficult to "switch off" and settle. In this situation, the best way to calm her would be to take her to a quiet spot. Gradually withdrawing the stimulation, she may express her feelings by crying for a while and then eventually settling to sleep.

Clueless
so your baby has had a feed, a nappy change and fresh from a good nap, but yet crying incessantly? You've tried all sorts of methods to comfort her, but your efforts have gone in vain to calm her down. If you're a first-time parent, you may be in a total dilemma - because its not clear whether your baby is unhappy by nature or if something is bothering her. Normally, a baby who is ill, often cries in a different tone -- it may be more urgent or high-pitched. Similarly, a sudden unusual quietness in a baby who normally cries frequently is a sign that something is wrong. The most important thing to remember is that you will have to use your instinct at such times. And if you feel that your baby needs medical attention, don't hesitate to call your doctor. So remember to keep the number handy. Any difficulty in breathing through the crying, or if the crying is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhoea, or constipation, immediately call the doctor.

Crying baby: What to do when your newborn cries

Newborn crying jags are inevitable, but a crying baby can test your patience all the same. Here's help soothing a crying baby and renewing your ability to handle the tears.
By Mayo Clinic staff

The dream: Your baby sleeps through the night after just a few weeks, gurgles happily while you run errands and only fusses when hunger strikes. The reality: Your baby's favorite playtime is after the 2 a.m. feeding. Crankiness peaks when you're out and about. You had no idea a crying baby could keep the tears flowing for so long. Sound familiar? In any given day, the average newborn cries for one to four hours. Find out why babies cry and how to handle a crying baby.

Decoding the tears

A crying baby is trying to tell you something. Your job is to figure out why your baby is crying and what if anything you can do about it. Consider what your baby couild be thinking:

I'm hungry. Most newborns eat every few hours round-the-clock. Some babies become frantic when hunger strikes. They might get so worked up by the time the feeding begins that they gulp air with the milk, which can cause spitting up, trapped gas and more crying. To avoid such frenzy, respond to early signs of hunger. If your baby begins to gulp during the feeding, take a break.

I need to burp. During and after each feeding, take time to burp your baby. I'm wet. For some babies, a wet or soiled diaper is a surefire way to trigger tears. Gas or indigestion can have the same effect. Check your baby's diaper often to make sure it's clean and dry.

I'm tired. Tired babies are often fussy and your baby might need more sleep than you think. Newborns often sleep up to 16 hours a day. Some newborns sleep even more.

I'd rather be bundled. Some babies feel most secure in a swaddle wrap. Snugly wrap your baby in a receiving blanket or other small, lightweight blanket.

I want to move. Sometimes a rocking session or walk through the house is enough to soothe a crying baby. In other cases, a change of position is all that's needed. Keeping safety precautions in mind, try a baby swing or vibrating infant seat. Weather permitting, head outdoors with the stroller. You might even want to buckle up for a ride in the car.

I'm lonely. Sometimes simply seeing you, hearing your voice or being cuddled can stop the tears. Gentle massage or light pats on the back might soothe a crying baby, too.

I'm hot. A baby who's too hot is likely to be uncomfortable. The same goes for a baby who's too cold. Add or remove a layer of clothing as needed.

I want to suck on something. Sucking is a natural reflex. For many babies, it's a comforting, soothing activity. If your baby isn't hungry, try a clean finger or pacifier.

I've had enough. Too much noise, movement or visual stimulation might drive your baby to tears. Move to a calmer environment or place your baby in the crib. White noise such as a recording of ocean waves or the monotonous sound of an electric fan or vacuum cleaner might help your crying baby relax.

It's just that time of day. Many babies have predictable periods of fussiness during the day. This kind of crying can help your baby get rid of excess energy. There may be little you can do but comfort your baby as the crying runs its course.

My tummy hurts. If you're breast-feeding your baby, the flavor of the milk might change in response to what you eat and drink. If you suspect that a certain food or drink is making your baby fussier than usual, avoid it for several days to see if it makes a difference.

Over time you might be able to identify your baby's needs by the way he or she is crying. For example, a hungry cry might be short and low-pitched, while a cry of pain might be a sudden, long, high-pitched shriek. Picking up on any patterns can help you better respond to your baby's cries.

Crying it out
If you've tried everything and your baby is still upset, consider letting your baby cry it out. While listening to your baby wail can be agonizing, keep in mind that some babies can't fall asleep without crying. Your baby might go to sleep more quickly if left to cry for a little while. Next page (1 of 2)

See Also

Slide show: Baby baths Newborn care: Common-sense strategies for stressed-out parents New parents: How to get the sleep you need Breast-feeding: Is your baby getting enough milk? Premature baby? Understand your preemie's special needs Pacifiers: Are they good for your baby? Breast-feeding vs. formula-feeding: What's best? Umbilical cord care: Do's and don'ts for parents Breast milk storage: Tips for storing breast milk Baby's head shape: What's normal? Infant development: Birth to 3 months Breast-feeding: Choosing a breast pump Breast-feeding: 7 tips for pumping success New dad: Tips to help manage stress Breast-feeding: What every mom needs to know Baby bath basics: A parent's guide Feeding your newborn: What you need to know Newborn care: Should I wake my baby for feedings? Slide show: Breast-feeding positions Uncircumcised penis: Is special care needed? Slide show: What a newborn really looks like Baby poop: What's normal? Video: Baby's soft spots (fontanels) Induced lactation: Can I breast-feed my adopted baby?


References

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) Infant jaundice H1N1 flu (swine flu) vaccine Q & A Breast-feeding: Support for working moms Breast-feeding: Nobody said it would be this hard Slide show: Birthmarks Vaccination schedule: Why so many so fast? Baby sling: Is it safe? Circumcision (male) Sagging breasts: Inevitable after breast-feeding? Blog: Surviving the first two weeks with your newborn

PR00037 April 16, 2011 1998-2011 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

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