why newborn crying
Why Newborns Cry — A Calm Checklist and When to Get Help
Crying communicates hunger, discomfort, tiredness, closeness needs or overstimulation. A repeatable check helps, but a sudden unusual cry or an unwell baby needs medical assessment.
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The calm checklist
- Offer a feed if cues suggest hunger
- Check the nappy and clothing
- Hold skin-to-skin or close
- Reduce light and stimulation
- Try gentle movement or white noise
- Check whether the baby may be too hot or cold
Protect the caregiver too
Crying can overwhelm anyone. Never shake a baby. Put the baby in a safe sleep space, step away for a few minutes, breathe and call someone.
Get urgent help
Common questions
Can you spoil a newborn by holding them?
Responding to a newborn’s need for feeding, warmth and comfort does not spoil them.
Sources & editorial process
Written by the Elara editorial team from the sources above. This page has not been reviewed by an independent clinician. Read how we write and update health pages. Last updated .
Medical disclaimer: this page is general education, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are worried about yourself or your baby, contact your midwife, doctor or maternity unit straight away. In an emergency call your local emergency number.