All newborn babies cry. This is the way they communicate their needs. Understanding the purple crying phase will help parents understand their child’s experience. If the crying continues and becomes intense, parents may become concerned. Parents, especially those who are new to infant care and are trying to navigate the complicated world of baby care, can feel anxious or helpless. These babies are commonly labeled with colic. This term can be misleading and cause stress to families. Experts coined the phrase “Period of Purple Cry” to assure parents that their infants’ excessive crying is normal.
The Problem with the Term ‘Colic
It can be confusing to hear that your baby is suffering from colic. Colic is often understood as excessive crying, which can last for long periods of time and seems to be inconsolable. There is no widely accepted definition or cause of colic. The ambiguity of the term can cause parents to think that their baby is crying because there’s a medical problem. To relieve symptoms, many doctors will prescribe medications. This reinforces the belief that there is something wrong with the child.
The developmental pediatrician, Dr. Ronald Barr, coined “Period Purple Crying” as a way to explain this phenomenon. He wanted to reassure parents about the fact that excessive crying was a normal stage of infant development, and would not continue indefinitely. The research of Dr. Barr emphasizes that parents should recognize this crying stage as a regular part of infant development and not a sign of medical problems.
Understanding the Period of Purple Crying
Clarify that “PURPLE” does not mean that your baby’s tears will make him purple. PURPLE, however, is an acronym for the crying phase that begins at around two weeks and lasts until about three to four months. Parents can expect to see certain patterns in the crying of their babies during this time.
Purple crying is Norma.l
Dr. Barr points out that all babies cry during this phase of development, not only those who are labeled colicky. There is a range of crying behaviors. Some babies may cry a little while others may cry for long periods. This range is completely normal. This pattern of behavior has been observed not only in humans, but also in other mammalian animals, which suggests that it may have evolved from this phase.
It is a normal behavior and serves many purposes for infant development. Crying helps to strengthen the bond between parents and children, communicates their needs and can even help develop the vocal cords and the respiratory system of the infant. Parents can be more relaxed about their baby’s demands by understanding that cry is not a problem.
The PURPLE Acronym
This acronym helps parents understand the crying of their babies and reinforces that this phase will pass. Each letter represents:
- P stands for peak crying: Your baby will cry more every week and reach its peak around the age of two months. The crying will decrease after this peak. Parents may find this peak challenging, but they must remember that it’s a temporary phase.
- U stands for UNEXPECTED Crying: Babies can cry in unexpected ways, sometimes without apparent cause. Parents can become confused by this unpredictability. Even after the baby is fed, changed and comforted, it can still happen.
- R stands for resists soothing: Your baby may cry despite your efforts to soothe him, such as rocking, feeding or soothing sounds. Parents who are trying to help their child may find this resistance frustrating. Parents who understand that this is a normal part of development can be more patient.
- A PAIN-LIKE FACE: Even if your baby is not in pain or discomfort, they may make facial expressions which suggest that they are. It can be frightening, but you should remember that this is part of the crying stage.
- L stands for LONG-LASTING. Crying episodes can last several hours, making it difficult for caregivers. Parents must take breaks to rest when necessary.
- E stands for EVENING. Babies often cry more at night, when parents are tired. It is often called the “witching hours”, and parents can prepare and better manage this time by recognizing these patterns.
What causes PURPLE crying?
Research has not yet identified a definitive reason for infants’ excessive crying. Colic is often linked to digestive problems and other medical conditions. The term “Period Purple Crying” was coined to dispel the myth that prolonged crying is a sign of a medical condition. Dr. Barr’s study suggests that this is a normal phase of development that all babies go through.
It can be liberating to parents when they realize that this isn’t a sign of a deeper health problem. This allows parents to focus on coping techniques rather than fixating their attention on possible medical explanations of their baby’s behaviour. This understanding also encourages parents to share their feelings and experiences without fear of being judged.
How to cope with the PURPLE Cry
It is important to understand that crying for a long time is part of the normal development of an infant. However, this can be a very distressing experience. This emotional burden can cause feelings of frustration, guilt, or helplessness. It is important that parents seek help during this difficult time. Here are a few strategies to cope with the Period Purple Crying.
1. Consult Your GP
Consult your pediatrician before assuming that your baby is experiencing the Period of Purple Crying. You can focus on managing your baby’s crying phase knowing that he or she is healthy after consulting a medical professional. This consultation can give you peace of mind, and make you more prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead.
2. Tag Team with your Partner
Share the responsibility with your partner or other caregivers if possible during this difficult time. By taking turns, you can both get a rest and reduce stress. This will also prevent caregiver burnout. A schedule can help parents feel less alone and more supported in their parenting journey.
3. Create a Calm Environment
You can better manage your situation if you plan your day around the times when your baby is likely to cry. If your baby usually cries late in the afternoon, plan activities that will create a calmer atmosphere, like going on a stroll or spending some time in a relaxing space. Both you and your child can feel more relaxed by creating a calm environment.
4. Use Soothing Techniques
Try different methods of soothing your baby to see what works. Be open to anything that helps soothe your baby, whether it is gentle rocking, white noise, singing or long walks with a baby carrier. Do not worry about forming “bad habits”. Instead, think of what will bring you and your child comfort.
5. Lean on Family and Friends
Do not hesitate to ask for help from family and friends. You can feel less alone if you have a strong support system. They can also help you take regular breaks to recharge your batteries when the tears become overwhelming. Just having someone to talk with can provide comfort and relieve stress.
6. Practice Self-Care
It can be physically and mentally exhausting to take care of a baby who is crying. You should prioritize your self-care by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals and finding moments of relaxation. You will be better equipped to deal with the challenges of parenting when your child is in the Purple Crying stage. Self-care improves your mood and well-being. This makes it easier to deal with stress.
7. Learn to educate yourself
Understanding the science behind the Period of Purple Cry can empower you. Knowledge can reduce your fears and uncertainty, and help you approach your baby’s cry with more confidence and calmness. There are many resources available, including books, websites and support groups that can offer valuable insight and strategies.
8. Create a Routine
It is beneficial to both you and your child to establish a routine that you can follow every day. A predictable schedule will help you anticipate the needs of your baby and give structure to your daily life. You can manage your time better and make sure you have some moments of rest.
9. Join Support Groups
Join a parenting group or attend classes on infant care. It can be very reassuring to connect with parents who face similar challenges. Hearing other people’s stories and sharing your own can normalize this difficult stage. It also provides practical advice for coping.
10. Focus on the Positive
While this period of purple crying can be challenging, focus on the positives of parenting. Every cry is a way to communicate with your baby and enables you to discover more about his or her unique personality and needs. Celebrate small victories like successfully soothing your child. This can change your perspective and boost your confidence as a mother.
Understanding Purple Crying and Its Long-Term Effect
Parents and children can both benefit from accepting and recognizing the Period of Purple Cry. Understanding that excessive crying can be a normal phase of development can reduce anxiety for parents and increase their confidence as parents. This reassurance will foster a positive attitude.
Parent-child relationship is improved, since parents are less likely than before to be frustrated by their child’s crying.
Knowing that a child’s cries are part of their development will help them regulate their emotions better in the future. Infants who receive comfort and support during this phase are more likely to develop strong attachments and good communication skills in later life. This understanding can help parents build a strong connection with their children.
Conclusion
It is important to understand that the Period of Purple Crying is a normal phase of development for all infants, even though it can be challenging. It can be distressing to parents, but knowing that excessive crying can be temporary and normal can give them much needed reassurance. Parents can better navigate this phase by using coping techniques and seeking out support. This phase will eventually pass and you and your child will become stronger and closer with time.
Remember that you are not alone in this journey. Many parents have walked the same path and emerged on the other side, ready to enjoy all of their joyous moments as a parent. You are not alone on this journey. Many parents have been there and come out the other end, ready to embrace the joys of parenthood. Parenting is an adventure filled with rewards and challenges, and The Period of Purple Crying is only one of the many experiences that can shape your relationship with your children.
Every cry your baby makes is an indication of his or her growth and development. You can create a loving and supportive environment for your child and yourself by approaching this phase with compassion and understanding. Take a deep breathe, ask for help when you need it, and don’t forget that this phase will pass.
