Some things to consider
Emotional considerations for the parents
It is normal for newborn babies to cry a fair bit and if you counted all the minutes that your baby cried for each day (even if they only cry for 5 to 10 minutes each time they are being changed, or expressing their hunger) you would probably find that you are listening to them do this for up to 1 to 2 hours in every 24. If you have never had much to do with babies before having your little one, it can be hard to know what 'crying a lot' truly is. To try and put this in perspective, it can be normal for babies to cry:
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Irritably for a few minutes when being changed. |
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Upsettingly when being undressed or in some cases bathed. |
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In an intensely demanding and 'urgent' way, if hungry, or their needs have not been met 'fast enough'. |
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In a 'bored' or 'hollow' way, if wanting comfort or entertainment. |
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By grunting, grizzling, whinging, or growling uncomfortably, if overtired and overstimulated. This can be rhythmic and repetitive, possibly starting at a low volume and increasing gradually to a full cry. |
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Monotonously, on off for 2 to 4 hours and wanting to be held when unsettled, and having a fussy period. Crying more intensely if put in their bed for longer than a few minutes at these times. |
It can also be normal for some babies to cry fairly consistently for a few hours, on and off at various periods of the day or night. About 20% of babies will have long periods of inconsolable crying.