(A Complete Guide for Confused & Caring Parents)
Bringing a newborn home is a beautiful experience — but when your baby won’t stop crying, it can quickly turn into stress, self-doubt, and exhaustion.
Many parents ask:
- “Is my baby hungry again?”
- “Is it gas or stomach pain?”
- “Am I doing something wrong?”
- “Why does my baby cry even after feeding?”
The truth is: newborn crying is normal, and most of the time, it is your baby’s only way to communicate.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to understand your baby’s cries and respond confidently — without panic.
Why Do Newborns Cry So Much?
Newborns cannot talk, smile properly, or point.
Crying is their only language.
Your baby cries to say:
- “I’m hungry”
- “I’m uncomfortable”
- “I’m tired”
- “I need you”
- “Something doesn’t feel right”
Understanding these signals helps you respond calmly instead of feeling helpless.
Crying Because of Hunger — The Most Common Reason
Hunger is the number one cause of newborn crying.
Signs Your Baby Is Hungry
Look for these early hunger cues before crying starts:
✔ Lip smacking
✔ Sucking hands
✔ Rooting (turning head to find breast/bottle)
✔ Opening mouth repeatedly
✔ Restlessness
When hunger is ignored, crying becomes louder and harder to calm.
Why Babies Cry Soon After Feeding
Sometimes parents worry about babies crying after feeding.
This may happen because:
- Baby didn’t get enough milk
- Baby was too sleepy during feeding
- Growth spurts increase appetite
- Improper latch reduced intake
Crying Caused by Gas & Digestive Discomfort
Many Pakistani parents blame “gas” — and often, they’re right.
Common Newborn Gas Symptoms
Watch for:
✔ Pulling legs to chest
✔ Hard stomach
✔ Passing gas frequently
✔ Crying during/after feeds
✔ Arching back
Why Newborns Get Gas
- Swallowing air while feeding
- Fast feeding
- Improper bottle nipple flow
- Immature digestive system
How to Relieve Gas Gently
✔ Burp after every feed
✔ Hold upright for 15 minutes
✔ Bicycle leg movements
✔ Gentle tummy massage
✔ Avoid overfeeding
Crying Because Your Baby Just Needs You
Sometimes, your baby isn’t hungry or gassy.
They just want you.
This is called comfort crying.
Why Babies Need Constant Contact
In the womb:
- Baby heard your heartbeat
- Felt your warmth
- Was never alone
After birth, the outside world feels scary.
So your baby seeks:
✔ Your smell
✔ Your voice
✔ Your touch
✔ Your heartbeat
Signs of Comfort Crying
- Stops when held
- Calms during skin-to-skin
- Sleeps on chest
- Cries when put down
This is not spoiling.
This is a secure attachment.
Overstimulation — A Hidden Cause of Crying
Many parents don’t realize that too much activity can cause crying.
Overstimulation Triggers
✔ Loud TV
✔ Visitors
✔ Bright lights
✔ Too much handling
✔ No quiet time
In joint families, this is very common.
Signs of Overstimulation
- Turning head away
- Closing eyes tightly
- Stiff body
- Sudden crying
- Refusing feeding
How to Calm an Overstimulated Baby
✔ Dim lights
✔ Quiet room
✔ Swaddling
✔ White noise
✔ Skin-to-skin
How to Soothe a Crying Newborn (Step-by-Step)
Try this gentle routine:
Step 1: Check Hunger
Offer breast/bottle first.
Step 2: Burp
Always burp, even if the baby didn’t feed for long.
Step 3: Change Diaper
Wet diapers cause discomfort.
Step 4: Provide Comfort
Hold, rock, or cuddle.
Step 5: Reduce Noise
Move to a calm environment.
Step 6: Try Skin-to-Skin
One of the fastest calming tools.
When Crying May Need Medical Attention
While most crying is normal, consult a doctor if:
⚠ Baby cries nonstop for hours
⚠ Has fever
⚠ Vomits forcefully
⚠ Refuses feeding
⚠ Has blood in stool
⚠ Seems very weak
Trust your instincts.
You know your baby best.
Common Myths About Newborn Crying (In Pakistan)
“Holding too much spoils babies”
Truth: It builds emotional security.
“Crying makes lungs strong”
Truth: No scientific proof.
“Ignore crying to make baby independent”
Truth: It increases stress hormones.
“Gas drops are always needed”
Truth: Natural methods work first.
Emotional Reassurance for Parents
Let’s be honest.
Some days you will feel:
- Tired
- Confused
- Emotional
- Insecure
That doesn’t mean you’re failing.
It means you’re trying.
A parent who worries is a parent who loves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Nutritionist & Pediatric Review Disclaimer
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Please consult a certified pediatrician or nutritionist for personalized guidance.
Final Words from Momistan
Your baby is not “difficult.”
Your baby is learning life.
And you are learning parenting.
Together — you will grow.
