The Top 5 Reasons Why Your Baby Is Crying

Mar 28, 2023

Mother leans on edge of crib while newborn cries.

As a parent, it can be frustrating when your baby is crying and you can’t seem to figure out why.

Crying is a baby’s way of communicating, but it can be difficult to understand what they’re trying to tell you.

There are many reasons why a baby may cry. Let’s explore the top 5 most common reasons babies cry:

  1. Tiredness
    One of the most common reasons why babies cry is because they’re tired. If your baby has been awake for too long, they may become cranky and fussy. It’s important to establish a good sleep routine for your baby so that they get enough rest. Learn more about the sleep cues that mean your baby is getting tired, or is tired, and could use a nap.
  2. Hunger
    Another common reason why babies cry is because they’re hungry. Babies have small stomachs and need to eat frequently. If your baby is crying, it may be because they’re hungry and need to be fed. Make sure you understand what your baby’s hunger cues are and look for the early signs your baby is ready for a meal.
  3. Overstimulation/Understimulation
    Babies can become overstimulated or understimulated, which can lead to crying. Overstimulation can happen if there’s too much noise or activity around your baby. Understimulation can happen if your baby isn’t getting enough specific types of sensory input, often involving their sense of balance or the amount of pressure against their bodies. If you suspect this is the problem you can explore this with an occupational therapist, a doula or a parenting coach.
  4. Reflux/Silent Reflux
    Reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. This can be painful for babies and cause them to cry. Silent reflux is similar, but the acid doesn’t come all the way up to the mouth. If you suspect that your baby has reflux or silent reflux, talk to your pediatrician.
  5. Food Allergy
    If your baby is crying after feeding, it could be a sign of a food allergy. Common food allergens in babies include cow’s milk, soy, wheat, eggs, and nuts. If you suspect that your baby has a food allergy, talk to your pediatrician.

If you’re having trouble figuring out why your baby is crying, this is a great place to start. And don’t be afraid to ask for help from your family doctor, pediatrician or a trusted parenting resource such as a postpartum doula. 

Remember, it’s normal for babies to cry and it’s okay to ask for support.