I’ll never forget the night my baby cried for what felt like hours. I tried everything—feeding, burping, rocking, changing his diaper—but nothing worked. The exhaustion, the frustration, and the helplessness were overwhelming. If you’re in that moment right now, take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you will get through this. Crying is a baby’s way of communicating, but when it feels endless, it’s easy to doubt yourself. This guide will help you understand why your baby won’t stop crying and what you can do to soothe them—all while reminding you that you’re doing an incredible job
Why Is My Baby Crying?
Babies cry for many reasons, and sometimes, it takes a little detective work to figure out what they need. The most common causes include:
🍼 Hunger – Newborns have tiny tummies and need to eat often.
💨 Gas or colic – Trapped air or digestive discomfort can make babies fussy.
💩 Dirty diaper – Some babies are sensitive to even a slightly wet diaper.
😴 Overtiredness – An overstimulated baby may struggle to settle down.
🤗 Need for comfort – Babies crave closeness, especially in the fourth trimester.
🌡 Temperature discomfort – Too hot or too cold can cause fussiness.
😢 Illness or teething – If crying is persistent and unusual, check for signs of fever or teething pain.
Sometimes, the reason isn’t obvious—and that’s okay. Your love and presence alone are comforting, even when you don’t have all the answers.
How to Soothe a Crying Baby
1. Check the Basics First
Before diving into soothing techniques, rule out the essentials:
✔️ Offer a feed – Hunger is the most common reason babies cry.
✔️ Burp them – Gas bubbles can be uncomfortable.
✔️ Change their diaper – A wet or soiled diaper may be the culprit.
✔️ Dress them appropriately – Feel their neck or back to check for overheating or chills.
If none of these seem to be the issue, move on to other calming strategies.
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2. Try the 5 S’s Method (Dr. Harvey Karp’s Soothing Techniques)
Dr. Harvey Karp, author of The Happiest Baby on the Block, developed the 5 S’s to mimic the womb and help calm crying babies:
1️⃣ Swaddle – A snug swaddle provides security and prevents startle reflex.
2️⃣ Side/Stomach Position – Hold your baby on their side or stomach (only while being held, not for sleep).
3️⃣ Shush – A loud “shhh” sound mimics the womb’s white noise.
4️⃣ Swing – Gentle rocking or bouncing helps settle an overstimulated baby.
5️⃣ Suck – A pacifier, bottle, or breastfeeding can provide comfort.
For many babies, these steps work like magic—especially when combined!
3. Offer Skin-to-Skin Contact
There’s something incredibly soothing about skin-to-skin contact. Holding your baby against your bare chest can:
💖 Regulate their heartbeat and breathing
💖 Keep them warm and comforted
💖 Reduce stress hormones
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, let your partner, a grandparent,
or a trusted friend step in for skin-to-skin cuddles while you take a short break.
4. Use Motion to Calm Them
Many babies love movement, as it reminds them of being in the womb. Try:
🚶♀️ Walking or pacing with them in your arms
🪑 Rocking in a chair or glider
🚗 A car ride – Many babies fall asleep instantly in a moving vehicle
🍼 A baby swing or vibrating seat
If your baby prefers bouncing, try sitting on a yoga ball and gently bouncing while holding them.
5. Create White Noise
White noise mimics the whooshing sounds of the womb, making it incredibly comforting for babies. You can use:
🔊 A white noise machine or app
🚿 The sound of running water (a sink or shower)
📻 A fan, vacuum, or hairdryer (placed safely out of reach)
Some babies also respond well to humming or singing—your voice is their favourite sound!
6. Try a Warm Bath
If your baby is still unsettled, a warm bath can be a game-changer. The warm water and gentle sensation can:
🌿 Relax their muscles
🛁 Provide a change of environment
😌 Help calm an overstimulated baby
Pair it with a gentle massage afterward, using circular motions on their belly to relieve any trapped gas.
7. Go Outside for Fresh Air
Sometimes, a change of scenery is all it takes! Stepping outside can provide:
☀️ A distraction from fussiness
🍃 Fresh air, which can be calming
🛒 A chance to reset (even if it’s just a walk around the block)
If the weather isn’t ideal, try standing by an open window or sitting on a covered porch.
What If Nothing Works?
If your baby is still crying despite all your efforts, remember: some babies just have fussy periods, especially in the evening (often called the “witching hour”).
Here’s what you can do:
💖 Take a break – If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to put your baby in a safe place (like their crib) and step away for a few minutes.
📞 Ask for help – Lean on your partner, family, or a trusted friend for support.
🏥 Check for signs of illness – If your baby is inconsolable, has a fever, is refusing to eat, or seems lethargic, call your paediatrician.
If your baby’s crying is extreme (lasting 3+ hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for over 3 weeks), they may have colic. While colic is exhausting, it does pass—usually by 3 to 4 months old.
Final Thoughts: You Are Not Failing
When your baby won’t stop crying, it’s easy to feel frustrated, helpless, and even guilty. But please hear this: you are not
failing.
Babies cry—it’s how they communicate, even when we don’t always understand why. Your love, your presence, and your care are enough.
💖 If nothing seems to help, it’s okay to take a break.
💖 If you need support, reach out to someone you trust.
💖 If your baby is healthy but crying a lot, know that this phase won’t last forever.
One day, the endless crying will be replaced with giggles, smiles, and snuggles—and you’ll look back knowing you did an amazing job.
Do you have a favourite soothing technique that worked for your baby? Share it in the comments—I’d love to hear from you!
Connect with me on Instagram @intuitive_parenting_academy for insights and encouragement on your parenting journey