Why Babies Cry At Night

Babies are known to cry, and often times, parents can be left feeling helpless when trying to soothe their little ones. One of the most common times for babies to cry is at night. While it can be frustrating for parents, it's important to understand that crying is a natural part of a baby's development. This article will help readers understand the most common reasons why newborn baby cry at night and how to soothe their little ones back to sleep.

Routine Crying

Routine crying is generally an indication of disruption of the normal schedule. Babies that are overworked often feel restless and cranky towards the end of the day. Unlike adults, instead of sleeping, a baby would cry continuously at night. Gently swaddling the baby, wrapping them in a snuggly blanket with head and neck uncovered can help calm them down. Taking them for a walk in a stroller or a car ride could also be useful.

Sheer Hunger

Hunger is one of the most common reasons why newborn babies cry at night. Newborns have small stomachs and need to feed frequently, sometimes as often as every 2-3 hours. If a baby is crying continuously at night, it's possible that they are hungry and need to be fed. Since they consume only breast or formula milk, it is easily digested. Hence, offering breast milk or bottle feeding helps calm the baby. Even something as simple as sucking on a pacifier can help babies calm down as it gives them a sense of security.

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Hunger-Gas-Crying Cycle

The hunger-gas-crying cycle is a common phenomenon in newborn babies. When a baby is hungry, they start to cry. While they are feeding, they tend to swallow air, which can cause gas and discomfort. This can lead to more crying and fussiness, which can make it difficult for them to fall asleep. As a result, they may wake up hungry again, and the cycle of new born baby crying at night continues.

Some ways to break this cycle of new born baby crying in night are:

• Burping the baby. Halfway through feeding, taking a break and burping them helps. Then the feeding can be continued. Burping should be done again once it is done. Following different positions for burping is helpful.

• Feeding in an upright position prevents the intake of air. Feeding babies while they are lying on their backs can cause the ingestion of more air. This can cause more gas. To avoid this, feeding the baby in an upright position is beneficial. For bottle-fed babies, it is better to use nipples that help to better regulate air and liquid flow can be used.

• Gently massaging baby's tummy in a clockwise direction. You can also use a tummy roll on to alleviate symptoms of gas in babies. Alternatively, you can use over-the-counter medications such as gripe water or gas drops.

Crying Associated With An Allergy

Babies depend on the mother for nourishment. The food the mother eats can pass on to the babies. This can upset the baby’s stomach. If it happens a lot, it is an indication that the baby is allergic or sensitive to cow’s milk, nuts, wheat, or other foods. If the baby is allergic, it is advisable to talk to the pediatrician. When the baby is being breastfed, the doctor may ask the mother to stop consuming one type of food (milk or eggs) for a week. When a baby is drinking infant formula, it is better to ask the doctor and switch brands.

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Other Discomfort

Besides the above reasons for new born baby crying at night, there can be other factors that may lead to baby crying continuously at night:

1. Heartburn

This type of cry is seen after feeding. This can be relieved by taking short breaks and burping the baby. Sitting the baby up while feeding helps. Special bottles and nipples are available to prevent ingesting too much air. If this does not help, reflux may be the culprit. Talk to the paediatrician. 80% of the time, babies with mild reflux get better with thickened formula.

2. Overstimulated baby

Babies have a poorly developed nervous system. They are sensitive to sound, bright light, and changes in the environment. For example, TV light in a dark room, or maybe the volume alone, would make a newborn baby cry at night.

3. Colic

Colic is very common in babies during 1st month after birth. It is marked as over 3 hours of crying a day 3 episodes a week. Baby’s face reddens, the belly bulges, and the legs bunched up against the chest. Its cause is unknown however, it is seen to stop on its own in 3-4 months.

Conclusion

No parent wants to see their newborn baby crying at night but crying is a natural and essential means of communication for babies. While hunger is one of the most common reasons why newborn baby cry at night, it is crucial to attend to a baby's needs promptly and rule out other potential causes. It is important for a parent to be able to distinguish between different types of cries and address the baby's needs promptly. With patience, understanding, and attentive care, we can help our babies feel safe, secure, and loved, even in the midst of their tears.

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