Understanding the Purple Crying Curve and Effective Soothing Techniques for Newborns
- Brandy
- Feb 19
- 4 min read
New parents often face the challenge of dealing with a newborn’s constant crying, especially during the first few weeks. This phase can feel overwhelming, leaving many wondering if something is wrong or if their baby is suffering from colic. One key concept that helps explain this behavior is the purple crying curve—a pattern of increased fussiness that peaks and then gradually eases. Understanding this curve can provide reassurance and guide parents on how to soothe their infant effectively.
What Is the Purple Crying Curve?
The purple crying curve describes a period in a newborn’s life when crying intensifies and becomes more frequent. This phase typically begins around 2 weeks of age, peaks near 6 weeks, and then gradually decreases by 3 to 4 months. The term “purple” is an acronym that helps parents remember the characteristics of this crying phase:
Peak of crying: Crying increases and reaches its highest point around 6 weeks old.
Unexpected: Crying can start and stop without an obvious reason.
Resists soothing: The baby may not calm down easily despite efforts.
Pain-like face: The infant may look like they are in pain even if they are not.
Long-lasting: Crying episodes can last for several hours.
Evening: Crying often happens more in the late afternoon or evening.
This pattern is normal and does not indicate illness or poor parenting. It can be confusing because the baby seems healthy but cries more than usual.
Why Does the Purple Crying Happen?
The exact cause of the purple crying phase is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:
Immature nervous system: Newborns are still developing their ability to regulate emotions and sensations.
Digestive discomfort: Some infants experience gas or mild digestive issues, which can cause fussiness.
Overstimulation: Babies can become overwhelmed by new sights, sounds, and sensations.
Need for comfort: Crying is a way for infants to communicate their need for closeness and reassurance.
It’s important to note that purple crying is different from colic, although the two can overlap. Colic is usually defined as crying for more than three hours a day, three days a week, for at least three weeks. Not all babies who go through purple crying are colicky.
Signs to Watch for in Your 6 Week Old Infant
Around 6 weeks, many parents notice their baby’s crying reaches its peak. Signs to expect include:
Crying episodes that last for hours, often in the evening.
Difficulty calming the baby despite feeding, changing, or holding.
The baby may clench fists, arch their back, or have a red face.
Increased fussiness without clear triggers.
If your baby won’t sleep and seems inconsolable, it can be exhausting. Remember, this phase is temporary and will improve with time.
10 Practical Soothing Techniques for Constant Crying
When your newborn is in the purple crying phase, soothing can feel like a challenge. Here are some effective strategies to help calm your infant:
1. Swaddling
Wrapping your baby snugly in a soft blanket can mimic the womb’s comforting environment. Swaddling helps reduce startle reflexes that may wake or upset your baby.
2. Gentle Motion
Rocking, swinging, or using a baby swing can soothe your infant. The rhythmic movement often calms crying and helps the baby relax.
3. White Noise
Background sounds like a fan, vacuum cleaner, or white noise machine can mimic the sounds your baby heard in the womb, providing comfort.
4. Pacifier Use
Sucking is a natural calming reflex. Offering a pacifier can help reduce crying and soothe your baby.
5. Skin-to-Skin Contact
Holding your baby close with skin-to-skin contact can lower stress for both parent and infant. This closeness helps regulate the baby’s heartbeat and breathing.
6. Feeding and Burping
Sometimes crying is due to hunger or gas. Feeding your baby on demand and ensuring proper burping can reduce discomfort.
7. Create a Calm Environment
Dim lights, soft voices, and a quiet room can help reduce overstimulation and make it easier for your baby to settle.
8. Give Baby a Warm Bath
A warm bath can be very calming and soothing for your baby. The gentle warmth of the water helps to relax their muscles and can promote a sense of comfort. Make sure to check the water temperature to ensure it's just right—around 98.6°F (37°C) is ideal. You can also use soft toys or gentle bath products to enhance the experience.
9. Go for a Walk or Outside for Fresh Air
The fresh air and change in environment can help calm your baby.
Hold Baby Facing Away
To further help calm your baby, hold them facing away from you or looking down towards the ground. This position minimizes stimulation, as it reduces the amount of visual and auditory input from your surroundings. By providing a more serene perspective, your baby may feel more secure and relaxed.
When to Seek Help
If your baby’s crying seems unusual or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or poor feeding, consult a healthcare provider. Also, if the crying causes you extreme stress or you feel overwhelmed, reach out for support from family, friends, or professionals. It is always safest to set your baby in a safe space such as their crib or bassinet and step away to calm yourself if you are feeling overwhelmed by the crying. Never shake your baby as this can cause permit brain damage or even death.
Supporting Yourself During This Phase
Caring for a constantly crying newborn can be draining. Here are some tips to help you cope:
Take breaks when possible. Ask a partner or friend to watch the baby while you rest.
Practice deep breathing or mindfulness to reduce stress.
Remember that the purple crying phase is temporary and will pass.
Join parent support groups to share experiences and advice.
Place your baby in a safe space such as their crib or bassinet so you can step away to calm yourself when needed. Never leave your baby unattended on a raised surface such as a couch or bed.
Hire a Newborn Care Specialist or Postpartum Doula to help support you during this phase of development.
Comments