The Language of Newborn Cries: What are They Trying to Tell Us?

Think about your baby’s cry and their way of communicating! When you do, you'll start to notice that not all their little cries are the same.

“I’m Sleepy”

A newborn's sleep cry sounds like, "owh". This sound is created when the baby yawns and exhales.

“I’m Hungry”

A newborn's hungry cry is a low-pitched, rhythmic, and repetitive cry that sounds like "wah wah wah". The cry is often accompanied by other signals, such as: 

• Rooting for the breast
• Sucking motions with the tongue
• Lip-smacking
• Putting fingers into the mouth 

The sound "neh" is created when a baby's tongue touches the roof of their mouth, which creates a sucking reflex. The sound is similar to a lamb bleating. 

Other signs that a baby is hungry include: 

• Moving fists to the mouth
• Turning the head to look for the breast
• Becoming more alert and active
• Sucking on hands or lip smacking 

It's important to respond to hunger cries immediately.

“I’m Overstimulated”

A newborn's overstimulated cry sounds similar to a tired cry, which is long and hard. The cry is usually not as loud as other cries and often staccato. Overstimulation can escalate to shrieking.

Other signs of overstimulation include:

• Avoiding eye contact
• Constant head turning
• Flailing arms and legs
• Turning their head away from you or other stimuli
• Batting angrily at objects

To soothe an overstimulated baby, you can try:

• Removing yourself from the environment
• Dimming the lights
• Rocking the baby
• Shushing
• Singing softly to them

If your baby is crying in a way that sounds different from their normal cry, and/or their crying is continuous, it may be a signal that they are in some sort of pain or discomfort.

“I’m in Pain”

A newborn's pain cry is high-pitched, piercing, and grating. It can start without warning and be long, loud, and shrill. The cry may be followed by a big pause, as if the baby is holding their breath.

“I am gassy.”

Often accompanied by the baby pulling up their legs or arching their back. This cry can sound grunty or strained.

Tips for Calming a Crying Newborn

Once you've identified the reason for your baby's cry, you can start addressing their needs. 

Here are some tried and true methods:

Skin-to-Skin Contact: Babies often find comfort in the familiar smell and warmth of their parents. Holding your baby close can offer them reassurance.

Shushing Sounds: Mimic the noise of the womb by whispering a repetitive 'shush' close to your baby's ear.

Swinging and Rocking: Gentle movement can be comforting for babies. Make sure their head and neck are supported.

Pacifiers: For some babies, sucking is soothing. If breastfeeding, it's recommended to introduce a pacifier after breastfeeding is well-established.

Changing the Environment: Sometimes, a change of scene, like a dimly lit room or some fresh air, can make a difference.

Humming or Singing: Your voice is a familiar comfort to your baby. Softly singing or humming can be soothing. We were always a fan of "You are my sunshine."

Remember, each baby is unique. What works for one might not work for another. It's a process of trial and error.

Attending to a constantly crying baby can be stressful. Remember to breathe deeply and take short breaks if needed. Sometimes, just stepping out for a few minutes to compose yourself can do wonders. Your calm will also help soothe your baby.

It takes time to understand your baby's cries fully. With love, patience, and practice, you'll soon be fluent in your baby's unique language!