PURPLE Crying: A Guide for New Parents

All babies cry, but sometimes their cries feel endless. This PURPLE crying guide helps you understand and manage this tough phase.

What Is PURPLE Crying?

PURPLE crying describes a normal yet challenging time in a baby’s early life. It involves frequent, intense, and unpredictable crying.
Your baby might seem upset for hours, despite your efforts to comfort them. That can overwhelm even the calmest parent.

This period is tough but temporary. The acronym PURPLE helps you understand what makes this phase unique and intense.

The Meaning of PURPLE

• Peak of crying: Babies cry more each week until around 2 months, then gradually less until 3–5 months.
• Unexpected: Crying starts and stops without clear reasons.
• Resists soothing: Nothing you try may calm your baby.
• Pain-like face: Babies may appear hurt even when they aren’t.
• Long-lasting: Crying spells can last hours.
• Evening: Crying peaks late in the day.

Though stressful, this behavior is completely normal.

How Long Does PURPLE Crying Last?

This stage usually starts at two weeks and ends by four months. For some babies, it ends even sooner.
Most cry for two to three hours daily. Others cry for more than five hours a day. That feels exhausting—but remember, it will pass.

Knowing that helps parents cope better and avoid feeling helpless or worried.

Soothing Techniques That Help

Crying during this period may feel unmanageable. Still, some calming strategies can work.
While they may not stop the crying completely, they provide comfort for both you and your baby.

Techniques to Try:

• Skin-to-skin contact: Place your baby against your bare chest. This calms their heartbeat and helps them feel secure.
• Swaddling: Wrap your baby tightly in a light blanket to mimic the womb. This promotes comfort and sleep.
• Gentle motion: Try rocking, walking, or using a baby swing to soothe them.
• Warm bath: A relaxing bath can sometimes change their mood and reduce tears.
• Outdoor time: Step outside. Fresh air or a short walk often helps calm a crying baby.
• Check basic needs: Make sure your baby isn’t hungry, wet, cold, or gassy.

If you suspect an illness or something feels wrong, always contact your pediatrician for advice.

Coping Tips for Parents

Understanding that PURPLE crying is common helps parents stay calm. Your baby’s cries aren’t your fault.
Still, this time can be emotionally draining. You need support and self-care to get through it.

Prioritize Self-Care:

Taking care of yourself helps you care for your baby. Try these strategies:

• Eat nutritious meals.
• Rest when possible.
• Move your body daily.
• Talk with supportive adults.

Even small changes can boost your energy and resilience.

Take Breaks When Needed

When nothing works and emotions run high, it’s okay to take a break.
Place your baby in a safe crib, then step away for a few minutes.
Use that time to breathe, drink water, or call a friend.
Ask for help from a partner, relative, or neighbor when you feel overwhelmed.

The PURPLE crying guide reminds you that this is a temporary stage. Knowing that can offer peace and patience.

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