As new parents navigate the tender first months of their baby’s life, many are introduced to the phenomenon of “purple crying,” a term that may be as perplexing as the episodes it describes. This term does not mean that the baby turns a shade of purple but rather describes a period of intense crying that is common and, fortunately, a normal part of an infant’s development. I thankfully had a baby that was incredibly mild mannered, but saw posters about PURPLE crying plastered all over my pediatrician’s office. Let’s dive into it.
The PURPLE Period
The acronym “PURPLE” is used to describe specific characteristics of this phase:
- Peak of crying: Your baby may cry more each week, the most in month 2, then less in months 3-5.
- Unexpected: Crying can come and go and you don’t know why.
- Resists soothing: Your baby may not stop crying no matter what you try.
- Pain-like face: A crying baby may look like they are in pain, even when they are not.
- Long lasting: Crying can last as much as five hours a day, or more.
- Evening: Your baby may cry more in the late afternoon and evening.
What Causes Purple Crying?
The exact cause of purple crying is not well-understood. It’s considered a normal stage that some infants go through as their brains develop. During this phase, even the most comforting gestures from parents may not ease the baby’s distress. This can be incredibly challenging for caregivers, often leading to feelings of frustration, concern, and doubt about their parenting skills.
Coping with Purple Crying
The most important thing to remember is that purple crying is a phase; it is temporary and will pass. Here are some strategies to help you cope:
Soothing Techniques: While infants during a purple crying phase might resist soothing, it’s still important to try. Rocking, singing, gentle patting, swaddling, and offering a pacifier can sometimes be effective.
Stay Calm: Babies can pick up on the stress levels of those around them. Take deep breaths and remain as relaxed as possible.
Take Breaks: If the crying becomes overwhelming, it’s okay to put your baby down in a safe place, like a crib, and take a few minutes to yourself.
Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to reach out to family, friends, or your pediatrician for support.
Know It’s Not Your Fault: Understand that this phase is a normal part of development and is not reflective of your baby’s health, your parenting skills, or your baby’s future temperament.
Educate Yourself and Others: Knowing about purple crying can help set realistic expectations for your baby’s behavior and reduce the risk of shaken baby syndrome, which can occur when someone in distress shakes an infant out of frustration.
The Light at the End of the Tunnel
While in the thick of this phase, it can be hard to see an end in sight. However, most parents find that the purple crying period does indeed have a natural resolution. As babies grow and begin to understand the world around them, their crying often becomes less frequent and more predictable.
Purple crying is a difficult but standard part of infancy. As a society, we can support parents and caregivers by educating about this phase, thus normalizing it and providing strategies for coping. If you find yourself struggling, remember you’re not alone, and this phase will pass. It’s always acceptable and advisable to seek help when you need it. Your journey through parenting is not meant to be walked alone, and understanding the nuances, like purple crying, can equip you to better handle the challenges that come with raising a baby.
