Baby Crying Sounds: Tips to Understand and Handle the Different Types of Baby Cries

baby's cry baby parenting tips

By Jackelyn Cornejo , Parent Herald Mar 04, 11:20 am

Babies produce a variation of sounds, ranging from laughter to grunts to babbling. Most of the time, they are happily engrossed in exploring their new world.

However, when they have a need, they tell through crying, a dependable way to catch your attention. Recognizing the different sounds of a baby's cry is essential for prompt soothing.

Parents Need to Know the Meaning of Baby's Cry

For new families, deciphering the meaning behind each cry can be challenging. Fortunately, babies have a universal language that remains consistent regardless of their place of birth. This shared baby language can be easily learned.

Understanding the reasons behind a baby's cry is particularly important in the first few weeks after birth, as it can be a stressful period for families.

Different cries express varied needs or emotions, and while some parents may naturally decipher certain types of cries, most benefit from additional support.

Taking care of oneself is essential for parents during this initial period. By maintaining good health and staying calm, parents can better nurture a meaningful relationship with their baby and serve as positive role models while responding to the various cries.

Understanding Various Baby Cries and Their Meanings

From birth until they utter their first words, infants employ crying as a primary means of communication.

Surprisingly, crying isn't always indicative of distress; at times, it serves as a simple call for attention, typically becoming more apparent around the second or third month.

Tired Cry

Listening Cues: A helpless, breathy sound akin to "owh," often easily pacified with comforting measures.
Recommended Actions: Promote better sleep, particularly during the night, by identifying signs like yawning, drowsiness, and fussiness. Establish a consistent sleep routine, monitor sleep patterns, and consider swaddling for added comfort.

Overstimulated Cry

Listening Cues: A low-toned, whiny cry that may intensify into shrieking, challenging to comfort.
Recommended Actions: Provide a quiet environment by removing or reducing sources of stimulation. Respond to early cues such as fussing and turning away. Utilize calming methods like white noise or a gentle backrub.

Bored Cry

Listening Cues: Similar to overstimulated cry, a low-toned, whiny expression seeking attention.
Recommended Actions: Allow the baby some time to adapt and self-soothe. Resist rushing to their side immediately; let them explore surroundings independently to foster self-soothing abilities.

Hunger Cry

Listening Cues: Recognizable rhythmic, high-pitched squeals, and a "neh" sound.
Recommended Actions: Promptly respond by feeding the baby, recognizing hunger cues like turning toward the breast or fussiness. Pay attention to feeding intervals and avoid overfeeding if using formula.

Uncomfortable Cry

Listening Cues: Whiny and high-pitched, indicative of discomfort.
Recommended Actions: Check the diaper and change if needed. Address potential causes like a stuck burp, ensuring comfort after feeding, and monitor clothing to prevent overheating.

Pain Cry

Listening Cues: Eerie, high-pitched cries, often accompanied by an "eairh" sound.
Recommended Actions: Address possible causes such as gas or constipation. Pacifiers can help relieve gas, and regular burping is advised. Monitor for signs of hair tourniquet or other discomforts.

Colic

Listening Cues: Intense screams and wails with strained movements.
Recommended Actions: Try swaddling, backrubs, gentle movement, or white noise to soothe. Understand that colic typically resolves by three months of age.

Sick Cry

Listening Cues: Soft, low-pitched whimpers indicative of low energy.
Recommended Actions: Soothe the baby and monitor for symptoms of illness. Seek medical attention for persistent distress or concerning symptoms.

Handling Baby Crying - The Don'ts

Don't Panic: Stay cool to prevent growing distress.
Don't Ignore: Respond swiftly to the baby's needs to avoid escalation.
Don't Punish: Babies communicate distress, avoid punitive measures.
Don't Get Angry: Maintain composure; anger exacerbates the situation.
Never Shake Your Baby: Avoid this action even when distressed.

Survival Tips for Parents

Take a Break: It's okay to ask for help and take short breaks.
Remember to Breathe: Remind yourself that crying phases are momentary.
Self-Care: Give time to the well-being; eat healthily and exercise.
Call for Help: Seek professional support if needed.

Parenthood is difficult, but recognizing the baby's cries and practicing self-care can make the journey more convenient. Remember, the crying phase is momentary, and asking for support is essential.