Should you need urgent health advice please contact your GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency please visit A&E or call 999
Don’t struggle with a crying baby alone, speak to your health visiting team.
The first few weeks and months with a new baby can be challenging, especially when you are struggling to soothe a crying baby.
Is crying normal?
Crying is normal for babies; it is the only way they can tell you their wants and needs. Babies often start to cry more from 2 weeks of age and the crying may become more regular and last longer over the next few weeks. But there is some good news, it will get better! From around 8 weeks of age, baby’s usually start to cry less each week. Here is a picture of a normal babies crying curve over time:
Why is my baby crying?
Babies may cry because they are hungry, tired, uncomfortable or want your touch and comfort. Not every baby is easy to calm, but that doesn’t mean you are doing anything wrong. If you are worried that there is something wrong with your baby or the crying won’t stop, speak to your Health Visitor, GP or call NHS 111.
Your health visiting team
Your health visiting team will talk to you about ICON at your first three appointments. This will include what is normal crying, what to do if you are worried, and they can offer you tips that may help you to settle your baby. Your midwife and health visitor can also help you to develop a personal plan on how to cope with a crying baby.
ICON
It isn’t just parents who get frustrated at a baby’s cry. Share the ICON message with anyone who may look after your baby.
Looking after you
We know that it’s normal for parents to get stressed, especially by crying, so your health visiting team will ask you how you are feeling at every appointment. Please don’t suffer alone and talk to us about how you are. There may be additional support we can offer you, or we may signpost you to other services that may be useful.
