Being a new mom can be incredibly overwhelming, especially when deciphering your baby’s cries. Those piercing wails can leave you frustrated, anxious, and exhausted, can’t they momma?
But don’t worry, understanding your baby’s unique sounds is easier than you think! This guide will walk you through the different types of baby cries and their possible meanings.
No more guesswork or stress—just clear, actionable insights to help you soothe your baby quickly. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to respond to your baby crying like a pro!
Let’s dive in and turn those cries into clear signals of your baby’s needs. You’ll feel more connected and capable, ready to handle any situation with ease!!
Main Points
Alright, momma, I know you’re busy and your to-do list is longer than a Black Friday queue! So, here’s the short and sweet version of baby crying meanings:
- Hunger: Rhythmic, gets louder with hunger; look for lip-smacking, sucking on hands, rooting.
- Tired: Whining/fussing, yawning, rubbing eyes; harder to console when tired.
- Discomfort: Intense, abrupt, with grunting/straining; check for a full diaper, tight clothing, gas.
- Boredom/Attention: Less intense, whine/call for attention; stops with engagement.
- Pain: High-pitched, sudden distress; look for rashes, fever, constant fussiness, contact healthcare if needed.
- Overstimulation: Similar to tired cries but frantic; baby turns away from stimulus, needs calmer environment.
So there you have it, momma—each baby cry meaning, to make your mommy journey a little smoother and your baby a lot happier!
Now that you have the basics down, don’t stop here. Keep reading for more details that will help you become a master at decoding your baby’s cries.
Why Do Babies Cry?
[This post has affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission if you should purchase a product using one of my links. It costs you nothing extra and helps support Making Mommas. Read my disclosure statement for more info.]
Crying is your baby’s way of communicating with you. Since they can’t speak yet, those cries are their primary means of telling you what’s going on in their little world.
It’s how they let you know when they’re hungry, tired, uncomfortable, in pain, or just need some attention.
Sometimes it can be frustrating to decipher the meaning behind your baby’s crying, especially when your baby seems to cry for no apparent reason. But remember, crying is a normal part of a baby’s development and their only way of expressing themselves.
As parents, our job is to figure out what our little ones need and provide for them as best we can.
What Different Baby Cry Sounds Means
Three years ago, my husband and I endured sleepless nights with our twins, trying everything to stop their newborn crying sessions. We swayed, rocked, burped, and changed diapers, often trading babies out of pure frustration. (He always wanted the one that was crying less! 😂🤣)
Our first year was incredibly challenging, with few “double the blessings” moments and many “double the crap” ones. 😆 We were stressed and didn’t know how to cope.
It wasn’t until I discovered the Dunstan Baby Language that I realized there was an easier way to understand the different baby cries. Priscilla Dunstan, an Australian mom, decoded baby sounds before they escalate into full cries.
If you can decipher these sounds, you can meet your baby’s needs quickly, ensuring both baby and parent are happy. I wish I’d known about this universal baby language when my twins were infants!!
If you want to understand your baby’s cry and meet their needs immediately, learn about the Dunstan Baby Language today!
NEH
Neh means hungry.
Neh is the sound a baby makes when he does his cute little sucking reflex. If you can train yourself to hear this sound before he starts crying, you will always know when to feed him.
Some other signs: licking his lips, sucking on his fists, rootin’ around (otherwise known as turning his head from side to side – he does this if he is a breastfed baby and he’s looking for a boob).
If you see these movements and hear the Neh sound, catch him before he bursts into a desperate cry. And feed the little guy.
EH
Eh means your baby needs to burp.
Your baby’s chest will tighten as he needs to release trapped bubbles of air, and the Eh is the cute little noise that escapes his lips as he tries to release those air bubbles. If you hear this sound, you can help him out by burping him.
Thus, he does not need to cry out for assistance.
EAIRH
Eairh means your baby is in pain.
He has gas. This is from bubbles that did not get released or from tummy gas.
You need to help your baby pass that gas by either burping your baby, massaging his back, or moving and pumping his legs.
This Eairh sounds more urgent. It is a distress call.
Your baby will appear rigid or pull his legs towards his tummy. Help him burp, fart or poop before his desperation turns in to an all-out cry and you will feel like a boss mom!
OWH
Owh is the sound your sleepy baby will make.
It is the yawn reflex – that cute little oh your baby will make with his mouth – that makes this sound. Some other cues to look for are jerky movements, an arching back, and your baby pulling at his ears or rubbing his eyes.
If you see these signs accompanied by the owh sound, help your baby go to sleep.
HEH
Heh is the sound for general discomfort.
It is a breathy heh sound. This might mean that your baby is too warm, too cold, or has a wet or soiled diaper.
Something could be pinching him or poking him. It’s hard to say.
You will have to do some trial and error to figure out exactly what is causing the discomfort. Catch this sound before your baby starts crying and you can quickly intervene to keep the little babes comfy and cozy all day long.
If you can learn these sounds then you can help your baby before the crying escalates. This teaches the baby that he can trust you to care for him.
It will build a stronger bond between mom and baby. And it will keep mom cool, collected and happy.
How to Calm A Crying Baby
Wondering how to soothe your little one when they’re upset? Here are some practical tips to help you calm a crying baby and bring back those precious smiles!
- Swaddle Your Baby
Tightly wrapping your baby in a soft blanket can give them a sense of security and comfort. Swaddling mimics the cozy environment of the womb and can often help soothe a crying baby.
Be sure to swaddle snugly, but not too tight, allowing room for hip movement.
- Rocking and Movement
Babies find rhythmic movements incredibly soothing. You can rock your baby gently in your arms, in a rocking chair, or in a baby swing. Even a gentle walk while holding your baby can help calm them down.
Experiment with different types of movement to see what works best.
- White Noise
The gentle hum of background noise can be calming for babies because it sounds like those they heard in the womb. You can use a noise machine, a fan, or even an app on your phone to create a consistent, soothing sound environment.
- Offer a Pacifier
Sucking is a natural reflex for babies and can be very calming. If your baby takes a pacifier, offer it to them when they are fussy.
Sometimes, the simple act of sucking can be enough to soothe them.
- Check for Basic Needs
Ensure that your baby isn’t crying due to a simple issue like hunger, a dirty diaper, or discomfort from clothing. Sometimes, addressing these basic needs can instantly calm your crying baby.
- Gentle Massage
A gentle massage can help your baby relax and release any tension they might be feeling. Use slow, gentle strokes on their back, legs, arms, and tummy.
This not only helps soothe your baby but also provides a lovely bonding experience.
- Create a Calm Environment
Lower the lights, reduce noise, and create a serene environment to help your baby feel more at ease. Sometimes, too much stimulation can make it hard for babies to settle down.
Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Don’t be disheartened if you need to try a few different strategies to find what calms your baby best.
You’ve got this, and your little one is lucky to have such a caring and dedicated momma!
Tips for Keeping Your Cool When Your Baby Cries
When your baby cries, staying calm and composed can be incredibly challenging! I spent countless months feeling reactive and stressed.
I felt utterly helpless and powerless to care for my newborn babies. I never knew what they needed or how to soothe them. With twins, the fussy crying felt endless!
I definitely don’t want you to go through the same thing I did!!
Here are some things I found to help me maintain my composure during those stressful moments:
1. Take Deep Breaths
When you start feeling overwhelmed, take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Slow, deep breathing can reduce stress levels and give you a moment to gather your thoughts.
2. Remember, It’s OK to Take a Break
If you’ve tried everything—white noise, a pacifier, checking for basic needs, gentle massage, and creating a calm environment—and your baby is still crying, remind yourself that it’s perfectly fine to take a short break. Leave your baby in a safe place, like their crib, and step away for a few minutes to compose yourself.
3. Have a Go-To Calming Routine
Develop a personal ritual that helps you unwind. It could be listening to soft music, enjoying a warm drink, or stepping outside for some fresh air. Engage in this routine when you feel your patience wearing thin.
4. Lean on a Support System
Don’t hesitate to reach out to family or friends for support! Sometimes, sharing your feelings with someone who understands can provide relief and a fresh perspective. Remember, you are not alone in this journey.
5. Focus on the Positive
Try to remember that crying is just your baby’s way of communicating. It doesn’t reflect on your abilities as a parent.
Your dedication and love are what count. Keep going, you got this!
By keeping these tips in mind and remembering to be kind to yourself, you can better manage the stress of a crying baby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the 5 types of baby crying?
A: Babies cry differently for various needs.
A hunger cry is short, repetitive, and worsens if not fed, often with rooting or hand sucking. A sleepy cry is whiny and fussy, with eye rubbing and yawning.
Discomfort cries are intense, indicating a wet diaper or tight clothing. Pain cries are sudden, loud, and high-pitched, signaling teething or gas.
Boredom or overstimulation cries are whiny and usually stop when the baby is comforted or engaged.
Q: How to figure out why baby is crying?
A: Figuring out why your baby is crying can feel like solving a mystery, but don’t worry, momma, you’re not alone! Start with the basics: Is your baby hungry, tired, or need a diaper change?
Consider if they might be uncomfortable due to temperature, clothing, or position. Look for cues like rooting (hunger) or rubbing eyes (tiredness). If these needs are met and the crying continues, they might need comfort or stimulation.
Try holding them close, gently rocking, or offering a pacifier. With patience and attention, you’ll get better at understanding your little one’s cues.
Q: What sounds do babies make when in pain?
A: When babies are in pain, they often produce sudden, loud, high-pitched cries that are a more intense cry and sharper than usual. You might notice them clenching their fists, arching their back, or scrunching their face in discomfort.
Listen for these distinctive sounds and watch for body language to understand when your baby is in pain.
Q: How can I tell what my baby’s cry is?
Understanding your baby’s crying takes practice and keen observation. Notice the patterns: hunger cries are rhythmic and repetitive, discomfort cries are intense and insistent, pain cries are sudden and high-pitched, and boredom or overstimulation cries are whiny.
Over time, you’ll recognize these patterns more easily, helping you respond to your baby’s needs. Trust your instincts, and remember, it’s okay to ask for support if needed!
Q: What is the first thing to check when an infant cries?
The first thing to check when an infant cries is whether they have any immediate physical needs. This includes checking if they’re hungry, need a diaper change, are too hot or cold, or are in an uncomfortable position.
Sometimes, addressing these basic needs can quickly soothe your baby and stop the crying. If these needs are met and the crying persists, consider other factors like fatigue or the need for comfort.
Unlock the Secrets to Understanding Your Baby’s Cries!
Are you struggling to decode what your newborn baby is trying to tell you through their cries? Imagine having the ability to know exactly what the different baby cries mean—whether it’s hunger, discomfort, or the need for a cuddle.
You can! With the Dunstan Baby Language! This incredible guide is designed to empower parents with the knowledge to interpret their baby’s cries, making parenting less stressful and more joyful.
With easy-to-follow instructions and real-life examples, you’ll quickly learn to recognize and respond to your baby’s needs with confidence and love.
Don’t wait any longer to build a deeper connection with your baby!
Buy the Dunstan Baby Language Video today and start understanding your baby’s cries effortlessly! Click the button below to purchase now and bring peace and comfort to your parenting journey.
Resources for Desperate Mommas
Having a newborn can feel like navigating a maze with a blindfold, so I’ve compiled some resources that might help you find your way.
Just a friendly disclaimer: I can’t guarantee these are the best out there, but hey, it’s a starting point!
Got any better suggestions? Drop them in the comments below!
Let’s help each other out on this wild parenting ride. 🍼✨
YouTube Channels
1. WhatsUpMoms
The #1 parenting channel on YouTube with a wide array of topics from DIY projects to parenting hacks, created by moms, for moms.
Watch here
2. Channel Mum
Offers tips on everything from baby-led weaning to reusable nappies, featuring a community-driven approach.
Watch here
3. Parents
This channel provides expert advice, news, and information on all aspects of parenting and family life.
Watch here
TikTok Accounts
1. @childishadvice (Mary A. Stoffel)
Pediatric OT and mom, Mary A. Stoffel, shares child development and parenting advice.
Follow here
2. @drbeckyatgoodinside (Dr. Becky Kennedy)
Provides expert advice on child development, parenting strategies, and emotional well-being for both parents and children.
Follow here
Facebook Groups
1. Mom’s Talk: Pregnancy to Toddler
A group where moms can share their experiences, ask questions, and find support from pregnancy through the toddler years.
Join here
2. New Parents – Newborn, Baby and Toddler Support Group
A community for new parents to seek advice and share their journey from newborns to toddlers.
Join here
3. Moms Group
This group is designed for moms to come together for encouragement, advice, support, and friendship.
Join here
Online Communities & Forums
1. BabyCenter
Join forums where you can ask questions, share stories, and connect with other moms who understand what you’re going through.
Visit here
2. The Bump
Another great platform to get advice, find resources, and meet other moms.
Visit here
I hope you find these resources helpful! Remember, every parenting journey is unique, and having a support network can make all the difference.
I encourage you to share any other incredible resources you’ve discovered in the comments below. Let’s keep this community thriving with shared wisdom and support!
At the End of the Day…
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to trust yourself and cherish the special moments you have with your little ones. Parenting is a journey filled with highs and lows, but with the right support and resources, you can navigate it with confidence and joy.
Remember, it’s okay to seek help and lean on communities and experts who understand what you’re going through.
Don’t forget to check out the Dunstan Baby Language Video, which can be an invaluable tool in understanding your baby’s needs and fostering a deeper connection with them. Purchase it here.
Taking small steps to equip yourself with knowledge and support can make a big difference in your parenting journey.
Let’s continue to support and uplift each other, because together, we can make the journey of parenting a truly rewarding experience. Happy parenting!
More Tips for Babies
10 POSITIVE PARENTING TECHNIQUES YOU SHOULD USE TO DISCIPLINE YOUR CHILDREN
THE DESPERATE MOM’S LITTLE GUIDE TO SURVIVING LIFE WITH 2 UNDER 2
HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD ASLEEP WHEN YOU SPEND THE NIGHT AWAY FROM HOME
