Caring for a newborn comes with many challenges, and one of the most difficult experiences for parents is figuring out why their baby is crying. Newborns cry for many reasons—hunger, discomfort, tiredness, or simply needing to be held. However, some babies cry intensely for long periods, leaving parents feeling helpless and overwhelmed.
This prolonged crying can sometimes be Purple Crying, a normal developmental phase that many newborns go through. However, there are instances when crying signals pain or a medical issue. Mistaking pain for Purple Crying can delay necessary care. In this article, we’ll explain what Purple Crying is, how to tell it apart from pain-related crying, and what parents can do to soothe their baby.
What Is Purple Crying?
Purple Crying is a term used to describe a period in a baby’s early life (typically between 2 weeks and 3-4 months) when they cry for long stretches without any clear reason. The term “PURPLE” is actually an acronym that helps explain this crying phase:
- P – Peak of crying: The crying increases in intensity, usually peaking around 6-8 weeks and then gradually decreasing.
- U – Unexpected: It happens suddenly and without an obvious reason.
- R – Resists soothing: No matter what you try, the baby may continue to cry.
- P – Pain-like face: The baby may look like they’re in pain, even if they’re not.
- L – Long-lasting: Crying episodes can last for hours.
- E – Evening: It often occurs in the late afternoon or evening.
Purple Crying is completely normal and is not a sign of illness or discomfort. It’s simply a phase that most babies go through as their brains develop.
How Is Pain-Related Crying Different?
While Purple Crying is a normal developmental phase, crying caused by pain is a different issue and should not be ignored. Unlike Purple Crying, pain-related crying has specific characteristics that can help parents identify when something is wrong.
Signs Your Baby’s Crying Is Due to Pain:
- High-Pitched, Intense Crying – If your baby’s cry sounds different—sharper, more urgent, or shrill—it could be a sign of pain.
- Sudden Change in Crying Patterns – If your baby is crying more than usual, especially if they weren’t previously experiencing Purple Crying, pain may be the cause.
- Crying with Other Symptoms – Look for additional signs of illness, such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, difficulty breathing, or unusual lethargy.
- Crying During or After Feeding – This can indicate acid reflux, gas pain, or food allergies.
- Tensing the Body or Arching the Back – If your baby is stiff, arching their back, or pulling their legs toward their stomach, they may be in pain from gas, colic, or another medical issue.
- Unusual Facial Expressions – While babies in Purple Crying may have a pain-like face, babies experiencing actual pain may grimace, tighten their eyes, or clench their fists differently than normal.
- Doesn’t Calm Down with Soothing – Purple Crying episodes may seem impossible to stop, but sometimes certain techniques (rocking, swaddling, white noise) help. If nothing works and your baby is consistently inconsolable, pain may be the cause.
Common Causes of Pain-Related Crying
If you suspect your baby’s crying is due to pain, consider these common causes:
1. Gas Pain or Colic
Many newborns struggle with gas buildup, which can cause discomfort. Signs include a bloated stomach, pulling legs to the chest, and frequent burping or passing gas.
What to Do:
- Try gentle tummy massage or bicycle leg movements.
- Hold your baby upright after feedings to prevent air bubbles.
- Consider gas drops (after consulting with a pediatrician).
2. Acid Reflux (GERD)
If your baby cries a lot after feedings, spits up frequently, or arches their back in discomfort, acid reflux may be the culprit.
What to Do:
- Feed in an upright position and hold them up for 20-30 minutes after feeding.
- Offer smaller, more frequent feedings.
- Consult your doctor if symptoms persist.
3. Ear Infections
Ear infections can cause persistent crying, especially when lying down. Babies may tug at their ears or have trouble sleeping.
What to Do:
- Check for fever and signs of illness.
- Visit a pediatrician if you suspect an infection.
4. Teething Pain
Teething can start as early as 3 months and cause fussiness, excessive drooling, and gum irritation.
What to Do:
- Offer a cool teething ring or gentle gum massage.
- Avoid numbing gels unless approved by a doctor.
5. Illness or Infection
Fever, congestion, or difficulty breathing may indicate an underlying illness.
What to Do:
- Take your baby’s temperature. A fever over 100.4°F (38°C) in a newborn requires immediate medical attention.
- Call a doctor if symptoms worsen.
How to Soothe a Crying Baby
If you’ve determined that your baby is experiencing Purple Crying and not pain, try these soothing techniques:
- Swaddle – Wrapping your baby snugly in a blanket can provide comfort.
- Use White Noise – Soft sounds like a fan, heartbeat noises, or gentle shushing can help.
- Try Motion – Rocking, bouncing, or babywearing may soothe your baby.
- Offer a Pacifier – Sucking can be calming for many babies.
- Reduce Stimulation – A quiet, darkened room can help prevent overstimulation.
If your baby is in pain, addressing the root cause (gas, reflux, fever, etc.) is the best solution.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If you’re ever unsure whether your baby’s crying is normal or due to a medical problem, trust your instincts and seek medical advice. Call a doctor if:
- Your baby has a fever over 100.4°F (38°C).
- They refuse to eat for multiple feedings.
- They have trouble breathing or show signs of dehydration (no wet diapers for 6+ hours).
- The crying sounds unusually high-pitched or weak.
- They seem overly sleepy, lethargic, or unresponsive.
Final Thoughts
Crying is a natural part of a baby’s development, but it’s important to recognize when crying is due to Purple Crying versus pain. While Purple Crying is frustrating, it is temporary and harmless. However, if your baby’s cry changes in intensity, frequency, or is accompanied by other symptoms, don’t ignore it. Always trust your instincts as a parent and consult a pediatrician if you suspect your baby is in pain.
By understanding these differences, you can respond appropriately and ensure your baby gets the care they need while giving yourself peace of mind.
