What to Do When Your Baby Is Fussy

Understanding and Soothing Your Baby

Most new babies have a fussy time each day. Your baby may cry because they’re tired, hungry, wet, uncomfortable, or simply want to be held. Over time, you’ll start to recognize your baby’s different cries and what they mean. Here are some ways to help calm and comfort your baby.

Are They Hungry?

Newborns eat often, and cluster feeding—many feeds close together, especially at night—is normal. Watch for early hunger cues like sticking out the tongue, hand-sucking, or rooting. Try to feed on demand before crying starts.

Is Their Diaper Wet or Dirty?

Check your baby’s diaper and change it if needed. Look for any redness or irritation that could cause discomfort.

Do They Need to Burp or Pass Gas?

Burp your baby after feeding. For gas, try gently bicycling their legs or laying your baby tummy-down across your lap and rubbing their back. Gas is common and usually improves over time.

Learn How to Burp Your Baby

Do They Want Comfort?

Babies love warmth, closeness, and gentle motion. Try:

Skin-to-skin contact
Rocking or bouncing gently
Shushing or white noise
Swaddling
Using a baby wrap or carrier
Taking a short walk or car ride (in a properly installed car seat)

Pacifiers

A pacifier can also help. If you are breastfeeding, wait until feeding is going well—around three to four weeks—before offering one. Bottle-fed babies can use a pacifier sooner.

The “Five S” Methods for Soothing Newborns

Many of the methods mentioned above—shushing, swaddling, motion (swinging), and pacifiers (sucking)—are together referred to as the “Five S” tricks for calming newborns.

Learn More Strategies for Calming a Fussy Baby

Are They Sick or in Pain?

A painful cry may sound louder or more high-pitched than usual. Check for anything that feels tight or rubbing. Take your baby’s temperature using a rectal thermometer.

If you think your baby is sick or in pain, call your care provider before giving any medicine.

If your baby is under three months old and has a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, go to the emergency room immediately.

Colic

Some babies cry intensely for several hours a day for no clear reason—this is called colic. It can be stressful, but it’s temporary. Most babies cry less after three to four months.

Talk to your baby’s care provider for tips on managing colic and supporting both your baby and yourself.

Parenting Advice

The baby and child development organization The Basics offers parenting advice based on your child’s age. You can sign up to get tips texted straight to you.

The BMC Teen and Tot Program keeps a list of recommended parenting resources.

Learn More About Supporting Your Baby’s Growth and Development