All babies cry quite a lot and for a variety of reasons. The common reasons why a baby cries vary depending upon the age of the baby. This factsheet will help you to identify the reasons why your newborn or young baby may be crying and suggest some steps that you can take to help soothe your baby.

Crying is the only means of communication for young babies; therefore at first your baby will cry for all their needs. These include physical needs such as;

* Hunger,
* Tiredness,
* A wet nappy,
* Being too hot or too cold,
* Or even discomfort from tight clothing.


Your baby will also crying because of anxiety or an emotional need such as affection.

Fortunately, babies' cries usually vary with these different needs. Within the first few weeks of life you will become able to recognize your baby's different cries and respond more quickly to their needs. At this stage it is impossible to spoil a baby with attention so if (s)he cries you should pick up your baby for a cuddle and find out what it is (s)he wants. This also reassures your baby that you are there for him or her.

Whilst getting to know your baby's cries will help you narrow down the need, it will often be a matter of trial and error. The first things to try are;

* Offering your baby a feed,
* Checking whether (s)he needs a nappy change,
* Give your baby something to suck,
* Rock or pat,
* Or simply talk to your baby.


If none of these help then check to see if (s)he is too hot or too cold. Room temperature should be around 20-23oC(68-73oF) and baby's normal body temperature 37oC(98.6oF).


Colic

Crying due to colic is often more high pitched than usual crying. Your baby may also draw up their legs and become red in the face. This crying tends to occur at the same time every day, usually the late afternoon or evening and is not helped by any of the usual remedies. Colic can start from as early as three weeks and continue until about twelve to 16 weeks. The cause of colic is unknown. You should try a range of methods to soothe your baby, for example;

* Rocking,
* Walking,
* Frequent feeding,
* Rubbing or massage,
* Music,
* A change of room or environment,
* A drive in the car.


It is not advisable to use medicines to give your baby relief without first consulting your GP or health visitor.


Nappy Rash

Nappy rash is a skin irritation that occurs on the skin of a baby in the nappy area. Various things can cause the irritation including;

* Ammonia, which is found in urine and faeces,
* Alcohol, which is sometimes used in baby wipes,
* A change in diet eg from breast milk to formula,
* Strong detergents/soap additives, which have been used to clean terry nappies.


However, not all nappy conditions are nappy rash. Other conditions that can cause similar symptoms include heat rash, dermatitis (eczema) or thrush.

Symptoms of nappy rash vary from mild sore red spots to cracked or broken skin and even blisters. You may also be able to smell ammonia strongly on the nappy. Treatment of nappy rash is usually simple, and the problem should clear up after a few days;

* Change the nappy as soon as it is wet/dirty,
* Let your baby play without a nappy as much as possible, so their bottom is exposed to the air,
* If you're using a barrier cream, stop using it, it could be
causing the rash or preventing the rash from healing,
* Avoid using plastic pants,
* Keep your baby's bottom dry, but don't use talcum powder,


If the rash lasts longer than three days, gets worse or shows signs of being infected, (inflammation, discharge or your baby develops a fever) ask your health visitor or GP for advice.


Coping with a Crying Baby

A new baby that is frequently crying can be very stressful for the parents and carer's alike. It is helpful to try not to become tense, as your baby will sense this and it may make things worse. If possible find someone who can take turns with you soothing the baby. Make sure that you rest when you get the chance. Put on some soothing music that you enjoy. Try to keep things in perspective and not to worry about things that are not getting done such as the laundry or the washing up. Remember that most colic disappears before your baby is three months old and nappy rash is usually easily treated, so relief is in sight.

If you are still finding it difficult to cope, then there are many good self-help books available with further advice on dealing with your baby's crying and helping your baby sleep through the night (http://www.total-kids.com/Amazon_Pages/_the+no%252dcry+sleep+solution%253a+gentle+ways+to+help+your+baby+sleep+through+the+n_0071381392_z.asp), and you can always talk to your GP or health visitor about getting local support and advice.

About the author:
Mary is an experienced mother, and editor of
http://www.total-kids.co.uk,a site bursting with tips,
resources, toys, and articles for parents
and childcare professionals.