Six reasons babies cry and how to soothe them

Your baby is fully dependent on you. You provide her with the food, warmth and comfort that she needs. When she cries, it's her way of communicating any or all of those needs and of ensuring a response from you. 
It's sometimes hard to work out which need your baby wants you to take care of. But as your baby grows she'll learn other ways of communicating with you. For example, she'll get better at eye contact, making noises and smiling. 
In the meantime, here are some reasons why your baby may cry, and what you can try to soothe her:

I'm crying because I'm hungry

Hunger is one of the most common reasons why your baby will cry, especially if she's a newborn. The younger your baby is, the more likely it is that she's hungry. 

Your baby's stomach is small and can't hold very much. So it won't take long before it empties. If you're breastfeeding, offer your breast, even if her last feed doesn't seem that long ago. This is called feeding on demand.

I just feel like crying

If your baby's less than about four months old, she may cry more in the late afternoon and evening. This is normal, and doesn't necessarily mean there's anything wrong with your baby. 

Persistent crying in an otherwise healthy baby is sometimes called colic. Your baby may become flushed and frustrated, and refuse your efforts to comfort her. She may clench her fists, draw up her knees, or arch her back.

Some people associate colic with tummy problems, maybe caused by an allergy or intolerance to something in your breastmilk or a type of formula milk. 

These days though, we have a greater understanding of how normal this pattern of baby crying is. Some experts think colic is not linked to tummy troubles, but is instead a stage called the "period of PURPLE crying®". PURPLE is an acronym and the letters stand for:
 

• Peak of crying. Your baby may cry more each week, the most at two months, then less at between three months and five months.
• Unexpected crying. It can come and go and you don't know why.
• Resists soothing. Unfortunately, your baby may not stop crying, no matter what you try.
• Pain-like face. Your baby may look as if she is in pain, but it's unlikely that she is.
• Long-lasting periods of crying. It can last for several hours a day.
• Evening. Your baby is most likely to cry more in the late afternoon and evening.

Living with a baby who regularly cries inconsolably can be very stressful, but there are tactics you can try to help you cope.

I'm crying because I need to be held

Your baby needs lots of cuddling, physical contact and reassurance to comfort her. So her crying may mean that she just wants to be held. Swaying and singing to her while you hold her may give her added comfort.
When you hold your baby close she may be soothed by your heartbeat, the warmth of your body and your smell. You could try putting her in a sling to keep her close to you for longer spells.

I'm crying because I'm tired and I need a rest

Babies often find it hard to get to sleep, particularly if they're over-tired. You'll probably become aware of your baby's sleep cues soon after birth. Whining and crying at the slightest thing, staring blankly into space, and being quiet and still are just three examples.
Lots of attention from doting visitors may over-stimulate your baby and make it hard for her to sleep. Try taking her to a quiet room before bed to help her calm down and switch off.

I'm crying because I'm too cold or too hot

You can check whether your baby is too hot or too cold by feeling her tummy. Don't be guided by the temperature of your baby's hands or feet. It's normal for them to feel cold. 
Use sheets and cellular blankets as bedding in your baby's cot or Moses basket. If her tummy feels too hot, remove a blanket, and if it feels cold, simply add one. 
Keep the temperature of your baby's room at about 18 degrees C. Place her down to sleep on her back with her feet at the foot of her bed. That way she can't wriggle down under the blankets and become too hot.
Take care not to overdress your baby, or she may become too hot. She'll generally need to wear one more layer of clothing than you to be comfortable.

I'm crying because I need my nappy changing

Your baby may protest if she has a wet or soiled nappy. Some babies don't seem to mind unless their skin feels irritated.
If your baby doesn't like having her nappy changed, it may be because of the strange feeling of cold air on her skin. After a week or so, you'll probably be a pro at quick nappy changes. Otherwise, distracting your baby with a song or a toy she can look at during changes may work well.

I'm crying because I don't feel well

If your baby's unwell, she'll probably cry in a different tone from the one you're used to. It may be weaker, more urgent, continuous, or high-pitched. If she usually cries a lot but has become unusually quiet, this may also be a sign that she's not well. 
Teething may also cause your baby to be more upset than usual. Babies are often irritable and restless in the week before a new tooth comes through. Learn the other signs of teething to look out for. 
If your baby has difficulty breathing through her crying call 111 for advice immediately or take her to your nearest accident and emergency (A&E).
Source : www.babycentre.co.uk