Bringing a newborn home is a whirlwind of joy, exhaustion, and endless questions. One of the most common concerns parents have is crying—how much is too much? Is it okay to let a baby cry? At Bee Home Pediatrics, we’re here to help you navigate these early days with confidence and support.
Why Do Newborns Cry?
Crying is a newborn’s primary way of communicating. Since they can’t talk yet, they use crying to express a variety of needs, such as:
- Hunger
- Dirty diapers
- Gas or tummy discomfort
- Overstimulation
- Fatigue
- Need for comfort and security
Some babies cry more than others, but all newborns have fussy periods—especially in the late afternoon and evening.
How Long Should You Let a Baby Cry?
It’s natural to feel concerned when your baby cries, but crying itself is not harmful. However, prolonged crying may indicate an unmet need. Here are some general guidelines:
- Newborns (0-3 months): Respond promptly to crying, as they rely on caregivers to soothe and meet their needs.
- 3-6 months: Babies begin to develop self-soothing skills but still need comfort and attention.
- 6+ months: Short periods of crying can be okay as babies learn to self-soothe, but prolonged distress should be addressed.
The key is balance—responding to their needs while gradually helping them develop self-soothing abilities.
When to Worry About Crying
Some crying is normal, but excessive or unusual crying could signal an issue. Contact Dr. Margie Diaz-Ochu at Bee Home Pediatrics if your baby:
- Cries inconsolably for more than 3 hours at a time (possible colic)
- Has a high fever (over 100.4°F in infants under 3 months)
- Has trouble feeding or is not gaining weight
- Appears lethargic or unresponsive
- Shows signs of pain (arching back, stiff body, excessive gas, or unusual crying pitch)
Soothing Your Little Bee
While every baby is different, here are some time-tested ways to calm a crying newborn:
- Swaddling – A snug wrap mimics the womb’s comfort.
- Gentle Motion – Rocking, bouncing, or a slow walk can help.
- White Noise – Soft sounds like a fan, shushing, or lullabies can be soothing.
- Skin-to-Skin Contact – Holding your baby close helps regulate their temperature and heartbeat.
- Check for Discomfort – Ensure your baby is well-fed, burped, and in a clean diaper.
Bee Home Pediatrics: Support for Your Parenting Journey
Caring for a newborn is challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Bee Home Pediatrics, we offer personalized, family-centered care to support your baby’s growth and well-being.
Visit us at:
Bee Home Pediatrics
3538 Highland Dr., Millcreek, UT 84106, United States
Call: 435-513-PEDS
Your baby’s first months are a time of incredible growth and adjustment—for both of you. We’re here to guide you every step of the way!