A certain amount of crying in the first few months is normal. Learning to handle crying can be tense, frustrating, and upsetting for parents.
However, learning to soothe them is eventually satisfying and builds attachment between parent and child.
"Developmental Crying" is the term for normal crying in the first few months, as it is age related.
The acronym "PURPLE" can be used to remember this normal crying.
P is for "peak of crying": babies may cry more each week, peaking in month #2, then less in months 3-5
U is for "unexpected": crying can come and go without explanation
R is for "resists soothing": babies may not stop crying no matter what is tried
P is for "pain-like face": babies appear to be in pain, even if they are not
L is for "long-lasting": crying can last for 5 hours a day or more
E is for "evening": the baby may cry more in the late afternoon and evening.
Soothing: because babies change moods slowly, and react to their caregiver's emotions such as anxiety,
it's important for parents to take some deep breaths and give each "S" several minutes to have an effect. Here are some tips for soothing crying, using the "5 S's".
Swaddling in a wrap that constrains arms and legs
Side or stomach holding (but not for sleeping)
Shushing sounds of voice, radio static, fan, air conditioner, or car ride
Swinging gently (NEVER shake a baby)
Sucking on a pacifier, finger or hand
Note that crying tends to increase beginning at age 2 weeks (in a full-term baby) right when the partner of the mother returns to work, or the relatives leave.
It's always ok to ask your pediatrician's opinion if your baby's crying is normal. If after a full examination your pediatrician
reassures you that your baby's crying is normal, it is a good idea to accept some support. If you have friends who have asked "How can I help?"
encourage them to come over for an hour in the evening (peak crying time) to hold the baby so you can have a little time away. If you feel like you
just can't stand the crying any more, please call our office for additional support.
Excerpted from Pediatric News November 2018, page 10, written by Barbara Howard, MD
