One of the most common challenges that new parents face is a crying newborn baby at night. The sound of a baby crying can be heart-wrenching and overwhelming, and it can be difficult to figure out the reason for their distress. In this article, Dr. Supriya Rastogi, the best Neonatologist in Faridabad will help you to explore some of the reasons why newborns cry at night, and offer some tips for calming a crying baby.
Reasons for Newborn Baby Crying at Night
Hunger
Hunger is one of the most common reasons why newborns cry at night. Newborns have small stomachs and need to feed frequently, typically every 2-3 hours. When a baby is hungry, they may cry or show signs of hunger, such as rooting or sucking on their hands.
Discomfort
Newborns can also become uncomfortable due to a variety of factors, such as a wet or dirty diaper, a tight or uncomfortable outfit, or an uncomfortable sleep position. They may cry or fuss to express their discomfort and seek relief.
Overstimulation
Newborns can become overstimulated by their surroundings, particularly in the evening when they may be tired and more sensitive to stimuli. Overstimulation can cause them to become fussy and cry, and may make it difficult for them to fall asleep.
Colic
Colic is a term used to describe excessive crying and fussiness in babies, typically in the evening or at night. The cause of colic is not well understood, but it may be related to gastrointestinal discomfort or immature nervous system development.
Tips for Calming a Crying Newborn at Night
Respond to their Needs
One of the most important things you can do to calm a crying newborn is to respond to their needs promptly. This may mean feeding them if they are hungry, changing their diaper if it is wet or dirty, or adjusting their clothing or sleep position to make them more comfortable.
Create a Soothing Environment
Creating a soothing environment can help calm a crying newborn. This may involve dimming the lights, playing soft music, or providing white noise to help them relax. Swaddling your baby can also create a sense of security and comfort.
Provide Skin-to-Skin Contact
Skin-to-skin contact can help soothe a crying newborn and create a sense of closeness and security. This involves placing your baby directly on your chest, with their skin touching yours. This can help regulate their breathing and heart rate, and may help them fall asleep more easily.
Use a Pacifier
Using a pacifier can help calm a crying newborn and provide them with a sense of comfort and security. Pacifiers can also help satisfy their sucking reflex, which can be soothing for some babies.
Take Breaks
Caring for a crying newborn can be exhausting and overwhelming, particularly at night. It is important to take breaks and ask for help when you need it. This may mean asking a partner, family member, or friend to help care for your baby while you take a break, or seeking support from a healthcare provider or lactation consultant.
Conclusion
Newborn baby crying at night can be challenging for new parents, but it is a normal part of the newborn period. Understanding some of the reasons why newborns cry at night, and using strategies to soothe and calm them, can help make the experience less stressful and overwhelming. Responding to their needs, creating a soothing environment, providing skin-to-skin contact, using a pacifier, and taking breaks can all be helpful strategies for calming a crying newborn. With time and patience, parents can learn to navigate the ups and downs of the newborn period and enjoy the joys of parenthood.