Surprisingly, crying does not produce tears until after the first month or two. Crying is the way babies communicate. They cry because of hunger, discomfort, frustration, fatigue, and even loneliness. Sometimes, cries can easily be answered with food, or a diaper change. Other times, it can be a mystery and crying stops as quickly as it begins.

Normal crying can sometimes be hard to identify. Keep in mind:

• Crying increases and peaks around 2 months of age
• Crying happens more in the evening
• Crying lasts 30-40 minutes and even longer
• Crying babies may look like they are in pain, but they may not be
• Crying continues no matter what you do
• Crying comes and goes, for no reason

No matter how frustrated you may become
NEVER SHAKE A BABY!

Find out how to comfort a crying baby.
Learn about the Period of Purple Crying.
Learn more about Shaken Baby Syndrome.

Remember, it doesn't mean there is anything wrong with you and your baby if your otherwise healthy baby cries a lot.

You will soon learn differences in cries, from a cry of "I'm hungry" to "I've been over stimulated." It is important to respond to your baby's cries. Contrary to old wives' tales, young babies cannot be spoiled by being picked up when crying. Being held is reassuring and comforting when a baby cannot express him/herself any other way.

More Information & Contact

For more information babies and crying please call the health unit for more information at 519.482.3416 or toll free at 1.877.837.6143.