If there is one thing that all babies do, it’s cry. However, some babies seem to cry harder and longer than others. If your baby cries incessantly and it feels impossible to soothe them, they may be in a stage of PURPLE crying.

It's common for babies to have patterns of PURPLE crying during the newborn phase and early infancy, but the intense, inconsolable nature of this crying can be confusing and distressing for many parents. Pediatrician Ronald G. Barr, MD, and the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome created the Period of PURPLE Crying program to help parents understand that this phase is normal and temporary.

Learn the signs of PURPLE crying and how to cope during this challenging stage.

What Is PURPLE Crying?

PURPLE crying describes a distinct type of crying that's common in newborns. During this period, your baby may cry excessively and be inconsolable.

The letters in PURPLE stand for:

• Peak of crying: Newborns tend to increase their frequency and duration of crying in the weeks following childbirth, peaking around at 2 months. Crying typically begins to taper off around 3 to 5 months.
• Unexpected: The persistent crying is unexpected and unpredictable. That means your baby’s episodes can come and go, without any clear explanation as to why they are happening.
• Resists soothing: Even after repeated attempts at soothing your baby, their crying may still continue.
• Pain-like face: During the PURPLE Crying phase, your infant may look like they are in pain, even when they are not.
• Long-lasting: These crying episodes can last anywhere from 30 to 40 minutes to multiple hours.
• Evening: Otherwise known as the “witching hour,” the late afternoon and evening hours seem to be when crying peaks or lasts the longest.
  

How Long Does PURPLE Crying Last?

Studies have shown that 20% of babies cry for long periods without an apparent reason during the first four months of life. On average they’ll cry for two to three hours a day. But some babies cry five hours or more in a day.

This stage can begin around two weeks of age and generally continue until your baby is about three to four months old. It may seem like forever, but it's just a stage and yes, it will pass.

Helping a Baby with PURPLE Crying

What's characteristic about PURPLE crying is that a baby seems inconsolable in this phase. In other words, you might rock your baby, sing to them, offer more formula or breastmilk. However, your baby may continue to cry despite your best efforts—and that's not your fault. Keeping this in mind, you can try the following comforting techniques:

• Skin-to-skin contact: Placing your baby (with only a diaper on) directly on your bare chest can regulate their heart rate, which can have a calming effect.
• Swaddling: Wrap your baby snugly in a blanket. Swaddling can often help a baby feel safe and secure, which may lead to fewer tears.
• Movement: During a long crying spell, try holding your baby while walking, rocking, or swaying.
• Warm bath: If bath time is typically a soothing experience for your baby, try bathing them in lukewarm water.
• Fresh air: Get outdoors with your baby. Sometimes a change of scenery or fresh air can help calm a baby. Go for a walk or sit on a blanket. Research shows that even a five minute walk can help calm a crying baby.
• Physical needs: Check all of your baby’s physical cues. Do they have a fever, need a fresh diaper or a burp, or could they be hungry?

If you sense your baby is crying due to pain or serious discomfort, don't hesitate to reach out to their pediatrician. It is important to trust your instinct if you suspect an underlying problem or health condition is causing the persistent cries.

Coping During the Period of PURPLE Crying

Understanding that a baby’s crying spells are a normal part of development can help you cope with these stressful times. Remember, just because your baby is crying, that doesn’t mean something is wrong. All babies experience fussy times and phases.

Finally, if you’re feeling exhausted and overwhelmed, explore ways to care for yourself, which will ultimately be best for your baby.

Self-care

Self-care is a critical component of parenting that often gets neglected. Taking care of your health means you will be in a better position to care for your baby. Some self-care techniques include:

• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting enough rest
• Exercising regularly
• Socializing with other adults

Take a break

If you find that the soothing techniques are not easing your baby’s cries and you’re feeling frustrated or angry, set your baby down in a safe place and walk away. Take some time to calm down before returning to your baby.

The amount of time you need to calm down before returning to your baby will depend on you. It may only take a few minutes, but it can also require you to step away for longer. Reach out to your partner, family member, or other trusted caregiver for help.