Purple Crying is a term used to describe a specific period in a baby’s life when they may cry more than at any other time. It is characterized by the following features, which the word “PURPLE” helps to remember:
- Peak of crying: Your baby may cry more each week, peaking at around 2 months, then lessening between 3 and 5 months.
- Unexpected: Crying can come and go and you don’t know why.
- Resists soothing: Your baby may not stop crying no matter what you try.
- Pain-like face: A crying baby may look like they are in pain, even when they are not.
- Long-lasting: Crying can last as much as five hours a day, or more.
- Evening: Your baby may cry more in the late afternoon and evening.
The PURPLE crying period is a normal phase in infant development and is seen across cultures and geographic regions. It is important to understand that this phase is temporary and not a reflection of parenting skills.
Settling Techniques
Settling a baby during this intense period of crying can be challenging, but there are several techniques that parents and caregivers can try:
- Swaddling:
- Wrap your baby snugly in a blanket to give them a sense of security. This can mimic the tight environment of the womb and help soothe them.
- White Noise:
- Sounds that mimic the constant whir of noise in the womb can be calming. This can be in the form of a white noise machine, a fan, or even a washing machine running.
- Rocking or Swinging:
- Gentle, rhythmic motions remind babies of movements they experienced in the womb. This can be achieved through rocking chairs, infant swings, or gentle bouncing.
- Pacifier:
- For some babies, sucking is incredibly soothing. A pacifier can provide that comfort.
- Change of Scenery:
- Sometimes, a change in environment can help reduce crying. This could be as simple as walking into another room, stepping outside, or going for a car ride.
- Comforting Sounds:
- Speaking in a soft, calming voice or singing gently can reassure a crying baby.
- Kangaroo Care:
- Skin-to-skin contact, also known as kangaroo care, can greatly soothe your baby.
- This involves holding your baby against your skin to provide comforting warmth and contact.
- Feeding and Burping:
- Sometimes, babies cry because they’re hungry or need burping. Ensuring that the baby is fed and burped can sometimes reduce distress.
- Check for Discomfort:
- Make sure that the baby isn’t crying due to a wet or dirty diaper, tight clothing, or being too hot or too cold.
- Routine and Predictability:
- Establishing a routine can help some babies feel more secure and less likely to cry excessively.
It’s crucial for caregivers to stay calm and patient, as babies can sense stress and anxiety. If the crying becomes overwhelming, it’s perfectly okay for parents to take a short break by putting the baby in a safe place like a crib for a few minutes. Remember, if you ever have concerns about the reason for your baby’s crying or the methods you’re using to soothe them, consult with a pediatrician to ensure everything is progressing normally.