Family Hubs

Babies cry. Infant crying is normal and it will stop.

A baby’s cry can be upsetting and frustrating. It is designed to get your attention and you may be worried that something is wrong with your baby. Your baby may start to cry more frequently at about 2 weeks of age. The crying may get more frequent and last longer during the next few weeks, hitting a peak at about 6 to 8 weeks. Every baby is different, but after about 8 weeks, babies start to cry less and less each week.

What you can do to help your baby

Comfort methods can sometimes soothe the baby and the crying will stop. Babies can cry for reasons such as if they are hungry, tired, wet/dirty or if they are unwell. Check these basic needs and try some simple calming techniques -

• talk calmly, hum or sing to your baby
• let them hear a repeating or soothing sound
• hold them close – skin to skin
• go for a walk outside with your baby
• give them a warm bath

These techniques may not always work. It may take a combination or more than one attempt to soothe your baby. If you think there is something wrong with your baby or the crying won’t stop speak to your

• GP
• Midwife - Telephone 01482 382 658
• Health Visitor - Telephone 01482 259 600

If you are worried that your baby is unwell call NHS 111.

What not to do

Handling a baby roughly will make them more upset. Shouting or getting angry with your baby will make things worse. Sometimes parents and people looking after babies get so angry and frustrated with a baby’s cry, they lose control. They act on impulse and shake their baby.

Shaking or losing your temper with a baby is very dangerous and can cause -

• blindness
• learning disabilities
• seizures
• physical disabilities
• death

For more info contact your family hubs, your GP, Midwife Telephone 01482 382 658 or Health Visitor Telephone 01482 259 600.