#asktheexpert My younger baby is crying a lot at night and sleeping only when we are taking in hand and roaming here and there and the time we are putting her in bed she is again Starting crying. what to do?

Question

Accepted Answer

It sounds like your younger baby is going through a phase where she finds comfort in being held and rocked, which is common, especially during the first few months. Babies at this age often seek the closeness of their caregivers for comfort and security. However, it can be tiring for you as a parent. Here are some possible reasons for the crying and some tips to help soothe your baby:

Possible Reasons for Nighttime Crying:

1. Need for Comfort: Babies often feel more secure when held close, which can help calm them. When you put them down, they might feel insecure or startled, leading to crying.

2. Sleep Cycle Transitions: Babies’ sleep cycles are shorter than adults, and they often wake up between cycles. They may cry because they’re transitioning from light to deep sleep and want reassurance.

3. Hunger or Thirst: Even though your baby may have had a feeding earlier, it’s still possible that she might be hungry or need comfort through sucking.

4. Gas or Discomfort: If your baby is experiencing gas or discomfort, it could be causing her to cry. Ensure that your baby is burped well after feedings.

5. Sleep Regression: Babies sometimes experience sleep regressions around 3-4 months. During this phase, they may have difficulty settling into a deeper sleep and want to be comforted more often.

6. Overstimulation: Sometimes babies cry because they’re overstimulated, especially if they’ve had a busy day or too much activity before bedtime.

7. Separation Anxiety: At a certain stage, babies begin to develop separation anxiety. They may cry when put down because they don’t want to be apart from you.

Tips to Help Soothe Your Baby:

1. Establish a Routine: Babies thrive on routine. Try to establish a consistent bedtime routine, such as a warm bath, feeding, or gentle rocking. This can help signal to your baby that it’s time to sleep.

2. Comforting Environment: Ensure your baby’s sleep environment is comfortable—dim lights, a calm and quiet room, and a soft blanket or swaddle. You might also try white noise to mimic the sounds of the womb.

3. Try Gentle Rocking or Swaddling: If your baby likes being held and rocked, try swaddling her in a soft, comfortable way, which can make her feel secure, or use a baby swing or rocker if available.

4. Offer a Pacifier: Sometimes, sucking on a pacifier can comfort babies and help them fall asleep on their own.

5. Gradual Transition: If your baby is used to being held, try gradually decreasing the amount of time you spend holding her while putting her down. You can gently pat or rub her back to help soothe her without picking her up.

6. Ensure She’s Comfortable: Make sure your baby is not too hot or cold and that her diaper is clean and dry. Sometimes discomfort can cause crying, and these small things can help make her more comfortable.

7. Feeding Before Bed: Offer a full feeding before putting her down to sleep. A full tummy may help her feel more secure and comfortable while she sleeps.

When to Seek Help:

If the crying persists, or if you notice any signs of illness (fever, rash, difficulty breathing), it’s important to consult your pediatrician to rule out any medical conditions.

Conclusion:

It’s common for babies to want to be held and comforted, especially at night. Establishing a calming bedtime routine and providing a secure, comfortable sleep environment can help ease nighttime crying. If the crying continues or is associated with other symptoms, don't hesitate to seek advice from your pediatrician.