It's Nothing to Cry Over
Help with fussy babies!
Why?
The Top 11 Reasons 1. Hunger- your baby needs to be fed. 2. Dirty Diaper- your baby needs it's diaper changed. 3. Needs Sleep- your baby needs a nap. 4. Wants To Be Held- your baby wants attention and to be held by you. 5. Tummy Troubles- your baby could be having gas, colic*, or maybe their pants are too snug. 6. Needs To Burp- often times after being fed, your baby will need to burp if air was swallowed while breastfeeding or sucking on the bottle. 7. Too Hot Or Too Cold- your baby either needs another layer or one less. 8. Something Subtle- your baby may have a small hair wrapped around their finger or toe or they could be sensitive to itchy clothing. 9. Teething- your baby needs something to chew on. 10. Too Much Or Too Little Stimulation- your baby wants to either see more of the environment or, on the other hand, has seen too much and wants to be swaddled. 11. Not Feeling Well- check your babies temperature and look for signs of illness.
How Often?
You may feel that your baby is crying too much but do not worry. On average, babies cry about 3 hours a day up until 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, crying should start to minimize to about an hour a day. But remember, all babies are different and you may have a fussier baby or be blessed with happier baby! Also, make sure to look out for colic.
What to do?
When dealing with a crying baby, you often find yourself getting frustrated. Recognizing the reason why your infant is crying can help very much to calm them. Many times simple actions like swaddling your baby, holding them on their stomach rather than their back, talk to them in a soothing voice or sing to them or sway them back and forth. If none of these techniques, try caressing your baby and stimulating senses. Also try giving them something to suck on. Holding your baby different ways may also help them to stop fussing. All parents deal with this and whenever you can't seem to quiet your infant, reach into your bag of tricks! For 22 ways to get baby to stop crying, visit the link below! http://www.babyzone.com/baby/crying-and-soothing/22-ways-to-calm-baby_86485
Colic
There could be more to it
The scientific definition for colic is "A healthy, well-fed infant who cries for more than three hours per day, for more than three days per week, for more than three weeks." Colic affects 25% of babies and can usually appear a few weeks after birth and should improve by 3-4 months. The long amount of time crying is a sure symptom. Other symptoms include episodes of crying in which end with the passing of gas/bowel movement and/or bringing legs up to abdomen while clenching hands and toes. If more serious signs occur call the health center. Remember, you are not a doctor so before assuming what is wrong you may want to check in with your baby's pediatrician for a proper diagnosis.