The Purple Crying Period: Everything Parents Should Know

Editor: Nidhi Sood on Aug 13,2024

Do you have a newborn who suddenly started crying for what seemed like hours, leaving you confused and exhausted? Your child may be going through a period of purple crying. "Purple crying" is a concept designed to help parents understand and manage excessive crying in babies. This guide details what a purple trait is and how long it lasts. We will also explore the link between a baby's purple cry and shaken baby symptoms and provide you with effective calming strategies to support you and your baby during this difficult time.

What is Purple Crying?

Purple crying is a term used to describe a normal stage of infant development that is often crying and loud. Dr. Ronald Barr and his team came up with the concept to help parents understand that, although difficult, it is a natural stage of infancy that will eventually pass. 

Understanding the Acronym PURPLE

P-Peak in crying: Baby crying usually peaks around 6 to 8 weeks. This is when parents can experience peak distress due to their baby's crying.

Unexpected: Crying is often meaningless and can happen at any time of the day or night, even after the baby has been fed, changed, and comforted.

Resistant to soothing: During this time, babies may resist all attempts to soothe them, making it difficult for parents to do so.

P-Pain-like face: Babies can make pain-like faces when they cry, even without physical pain. 

L. Long-lasting: Crying can last a few minutes to more than three hours daily.

Evening: Crying is expected in the afternoon and late evenings.

When Does Purple Crying Start and Stop?

The purple crying period typically begins around two weeks of age and can last until around three to four months. It is important to note that every baby is different, and some may experience purple crying for a shorter or longer duration. The crying episodes may occur at any time of day but are most commonly seen in the late afternoon or evening, known as the "witching hour."

What Causes Purple Crying?

There is no one specific cause of purple crying, but it is believed to be a regular part of newborn development. Some theories suggest that it may be due to a baby's immature nervous system or their way of coping with the new and overwhelming world around them. Parents need to understand that purple crying is not a result of something they are doing wrong but rather a natural phase that many babies go through.

Purple Crying vs. Colic

Although purple crying and colic refer to excessive crying in babies, they are different concepts. Colic is often used to describe excessive crying that occurs in a pattern, usually starting in the late afternoon or evening and lasting for at least three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks or longer. Purple crying is a broad term that indicates a normal developmental stage rather than a medical condition. Colic is just one aspect of purple crying, and understanding this difference can help parents manage their expectations and responses.

Connection Between PURPLE Crying and Shaken Baby Syndrome

Understanding the difference between a purple cry and shaken baby syndrome (SBS) is critical. Shaken baby syndrome occurs when the babysitter shakes the baby out of frustration or frustration over an inconsolable cry. It causes harm to the baby's brain and grave life-altering symptoms. However, unlike SBS, the purpose of purple crying is to make parents understand that this crying is a normal stage of development and not a sign of anything wrong with the baby. Knowing that crying will eventually subside and is temporary can make parents feel calmer and less likely to engage in harmful behavior. Parents should seek help and support if they struggle to stop their child from crying.

Coping with the Stress of Purple Crying

Swaddling

It involves wrapping your baby nicely in a blanket, which makes you feel safe and secure. Ensure the swaddle isn't too tight and allows the hips and legs to move naturally.

Suggested read: Learn How to Swaddle a Newborn Baby: A Step-by-Step Guide

Rocking the baby

Rocking is a time-tested way to soothe a baby and can be especially effective when purple is crying. The gentle, rhythmic vibration allows the baby to mimic the movements it experiences in the womb, giving it a sense of familiarity and comfort. 

White noise

White noise can help soothe a crying baby by creating calming, harmonious sounds that drown out other sounds. You can use white noise for babies or play soothing sounds like recordings of rain or ocean waves.

Pacifiers

For babies, the act of sucking is inherently comforting, as it provides security and can mimic the comfort of breastfeeding. Pacifiers can help reduce the frequency of crying by satisfying a baby's need to suck and keeping them away from any distractions. Keeping the pacifier clean and handled appropriately is crucial to avoid any possible health issues.

Give baby massage

Try giving the baby a good massage. A firm but gentle baby massage session can be comforting for some babies. Just keep an eye on your toddler's cues and back off if he or she isn't engaging.

Gentle touch

Holding the baby with a gentle, reassuring touch can be comforting. To help ease discomfort, make skin-to-skin contact, pat the baby on the back, or gently rub his tummy.

Offer a comfortable environment

Ensure the room is comfortable, as overheating and overcooling can cause discomfort for the baby. Soft, dim lighting and a quiet environment can help prevent excessive stimulation. The calm atmosphere creates a sense of relief and can help babies settle quickly.

Take regular break

If you feel overwhelmed, it's essential to take a break. Place the baby safely in their crib, and take a few minutes to collect yourself. It's vital for your well-being and your baby's safety.

Seeking Professional Help

Watch out for the following signs in your baby; if present, do not hesitate to contact your healthcare professional immediately:

• Fever: 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher
• The baby seems less alert or sharp than usual
• The baby does not eat well or has difficulty sucking while nursing or drinking from a bottle
• Loose stools or stools with blood
• Profuse coughing or vomiting

Conclusion

The purple crying period can be challenging for parents and caregivers, but it is essential to remember that it is a normal phase of newborn development. Parents can better support their baby by understanding what purple crying is, when it starts, and how to cope. Stay calm, seek support, and prioritize self-care during this period. With time and patience, the purple crying period will eventually end, and you will emerge more robust and resilient as a parent. Remember, you are not alone in experiencing the purple crying period's challenges; resources and support are available to help you through this time. Stay strong, stay patient, and remember that this, too, shall pass.

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