Why Does My Baby Cry So Much? 7 Common Reasons and What You Can Do

Bringing home a new baby is one of the most profound and emotional experiences of life. Alongside the joy, however, comes an enormous challenge: coping with crying. If you’ve ever wondered, “Why does my baby cry so much?” — you’re not alone. Every parent reaches moments of exhaustion and worry when their little one seems inconsolable. The good news is that frequent crying is common in infancy, and understanding the reasons behind it can help you respond with confidence and calm.

Crying is a baby’s primary way of communicating needs, discomforts, and emotions. While it can feel overwhelming, crying in itself is not a sign that anything is “wrong” with your baby or with you as a parent. Let’s look at seven of the most common reasons babies cry, explore practical solutions, and answer some of the questions parents ask most often.

1. Hunger

Perhaps the most obvious — and most frequent — reason babies cry is hunger. Newborns have tiny stomachs, and they need feeding little and often. In the early weeks, it’s not unusual for a baby to feed every 2–3 hours, sometimes even more frequently.

What to try tonight: Watch for early hunger cues such as rooting (turning the head and opening the mouth), sucking on fists, or restlessness before crying escalates. Feeding promptly when you see these signs can reduce distress for both you and your baby.

2. Tiredness

Overtired babies can be particularly challenging. Ironically, the more exhausted they become, the harder it is for them to settle into sleep.

What to try tonight: Look out for sleepy signs such as glazed eyes, yawning, or rubbing the face. Create a calm sleep environment with dim lighting and soft sounds, and try to catch the sleep window before overtiredness sets in.

3. Discomfort (Temperature, Nappy, or Clothing)

Sometimes the cause is simple: a wet nappy, an uncomfortable piece of clothing, or being too hot or too cold.

What to try tonight: Check your baby’s nappy, feel the back of their neck to gauge body temperature, and ensure clothing layers are appropriate for the room environment.

4. Colic

Colic refers to episodes of intense, unexplained crying, often in the late afternoon or evening. Babies with colic may clench their fists, arch their back, or pull their knees up to their tummy.

Research has shown that colic affects around 1 in 5 infants in the first months of life. Although it can be distressing for parents, colic usually improves by 3–4 months of age.

What to try tonight: Gentle rocking, tummy massage, or bicycle leg movements can sometimes help release trapped wind. Some parents find gentle singing, humming, or playing relaxing music or a warm bath soothing for their baby.

5. Reflux

Babies with reflux may cry due to discomfort from stomach acid travelling back up the oesophagus. They might spit up frequently, arch their back during feeds, or seem unsettled when lying flat.

What to try tonight: Hold your baby upright for 20–30 minutes after feeds, and consider offering smaller, more frequent feeds. If you suspect reflux, speak with your GP or health visitor for further advice.

6. Overstimulation

The world is a busy, noisy place for a newborn. Too much stimulation — bright lights, loud sounds, or constant activity — can overwhelm babies, leaving them unsettled.

What to try tonight: Take your baby into a quieter, dimly lit room. Swaddling or holding them close in a sling can help reduce sensory overload and create a sense of security.

7. The Need for Comfort

Sometimes, babies simply want to suck, cuddle, or be held. For many, sucking is deeply soothing — even when they’re not hungry. This is why many mums tell us: “My baby will only settle when feeding”.

Is it normal for my baby to only settle when feeding?

Yes, this is very common. Babies are born with a strong sucking reflex, and for many, being at the breast provides comfort and reassurance in addition to nutrition. However, it can leave mums feeling drained, both physically and emotionally, when a baby wants to suck constantly between feeds.

This is where gentle comfort aids can help. Some parents choose dummies, while others prefer alternatives. The Qudo Calmer, for instance, is a specially designed comforter for babies who seek sucking for soothing. Unlike conventional dummies, it works differently: Qudo has carried out research to validate its design, showing that it can help babies settle between feeds without interfering with feeding itself. Many parents have reported that it helps reduce constant suckling at the breast, giving mums a much-needed break while still meeting their baby’s comfort needs.

How can I soothe a baby who won’t stop crying?

Every parent has faced this question at some point. Here are some gentle, practical ideas to try tonight:

• Hold and rock: Sometimes, simply being in your arms is enough. Try gentle rocking or a rhythmic sway.
• White noise: A low, steady sound (like a hairdryer or a white noise machine) can remind babies of the womb environment.
• Movement: A walk in the pram or a drive in the car can sometimes calm even the most unsettled baby.
• Skin-to-skin contact: Holding your baby against your bare chest helps regulate their heartbeat, breathing, and temperature.
• Offer a comfort aid: For babies who want to suck constantly, something like the Qudo Calmer can be a reassuring option.

Take a break: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to put your baby safely in their cot for a few minutes and step away to breathe. Reaching out to your partner, a friend, or family member can also help you recharge.

You Are Not Alone

Caring for a crying baby can feel incredibly isolating, but remember: you are not failing, and you are not alone. Crying is part of your baby’s development and communication. With time, you’ll come to understand your baby’s cues and rhythms more clearly.

Gentle strategies, patience, and support can make a huge difference. Whether it’s responding quickly to hunger cues, creating a calm sleep routine, trying comfort techniques, or making use of innovations like the Qudo Calmer, there are always small steps you can take tonight to bring relief for both you and your baby.

And remember — this stage doesn’t last forever. Your baby will grow, their crying will ease, and you’ll both find your rhythm. Until then, be kind to yourself, seek support when you need it, and know that countless other parents are walking the same journey right alongside you.