As a parent of seven children, each with their own personalities, I know crying is a baby’s primary way to communicate before words. For new parents, nonstop crying can feel overwhelming and confusing, raising questions like: Why does my baby cry so much? Is something wrong?

Crying Is Normal. It’s How Babies Communicate. Crying signals hunger, discomfort, tiredness, pain, or overstimulation. Healthy babies can cry 2-3 hours daily in their first months, exhausting but normal. Each cry varies, and part of parenting is learning to interpret these signals.

Many expect calm babies, but crying peaks around six weeks universally. Babies are adjusting to a new world full of sensations. This phase isn’t a sign of failure, it’s biology. Managing expectations helps reduce anxiety and keeps you grounded.

Common Reasons Babies Cry

• Hunger
• Dirty diaper
• Tiredness
• Discomfort (gas, temperature, tight clothes)
• Need for closeness
• Overstimulation
• Pain or illness (seek medical care if crying is unusual or persistent)

Soothing Techniques That Work

From my experience with families and my own kids, these can help:
• Skin-to-skin contact
• Baby wearing 
• Gentle rocking or walks
• White noise
• Feeding on demand

Take Care of Yourself, Too

Caring for a crying baby is draining. Take breaks, ask for help, and prioritize your well-being. Your calm presence is your baby’s best comfort.

At Carriage House Birth, we honor the messy, beautiful reality of parenting. Crying is part of that journey, your baby’s unique voice. With knowledge, support, and compassion, you can navigate this phase confidently.