health
cry
DECODING the
It’ s a fact of life that babies cry … a lot. In the early months, fussiness and colic can overwhelm parents, but understanding what’ s normal helps.
By Prof Claudia Gray, paediatrician and allergy specialist; author of Dr Gray’ s REAL Parenting and Paediatrics
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Dr Gray’ s REAL Parenting and Paediatrics by Prof Claudia Gray
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The early months of parenthood can be overwhelming, especially when you’ re responsible for a newborn and struggling with little sleep. During the first three to four months, babies’ brains and digestive systems are immature, and this period has been referred to as the“ fourth trimester”. The baby is adjusting to the outside world, learning to feed, digest, and adapt to new stimuli – an enormous task. Some babies adjust quickly, while others struggle, with a wide normal range. This phase often involves gripes, groans, and fussiness. Here, we explore what normal crying looks like and how colic fits into the picture.
What is normal?
Crying is how babies communicate, and it’ s normal for a baby to cry during the first few months. At this stage, a baby cannot manipulate you through crying, so it’ s impossible to spoil them. Responding to their cries helps build trust and security.
Here’ s the typical crying pattern:
• Honeymoon period( first 10-14 days): Babies cry around 60-70 minutes a day, with fewer tummy gripes.
• Six-week peak: Crying increases to an average of 120 minutes per day as the baby experiences rapid growth and increased brain activity.
• By 14 weeks, crying usually drops back to 60-70 minutes a day, although it may last longer for some babies.
30 www. babysandbeyond. co. za