What's the reason if a baby keeps crying on the first day after birth?

Oct 09, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xie Zixing
Introduction
A newborn crying frequently on the first day after birth may be due to the difference between the intrauterine environment and the external environment. The baby might have difficulty adapting to the outside world in a short time, leading to a lack of security. Additionally, improper feeding causing indigestion, birth injuries during delivery resulting in pain, or colic can also lead to persistent crying on the first day after birth.

Babies often crying on the first day after birth may be caused by lack of security, improper feeding, pain, or other reasons.

1. Lack of Security

The environment inside the uterus differs from the external world. While in the womb, a baby's space is limited and enclosed, allowing contact with the uterine walls during movement. After birth, the surrounding space becomes much more open, making it difficult for the newborn to adjust quickly. This loss of familiarity can lead to a sense of insecurity, often resulting in frequent crying on the first day of life.

2. Improper Feeding

If the breastfeeding position is incorrect, the baby may feel uncomfortable while nursing, leading to fussiness and crying. Insufficient milk intake may leave the baby hungry, while excessive or overly frequent feedings can cause indigestion. Both scenarios may result in persistent crying during the first day after birth.

3. Pain

Pain from birth injuries—such as clavicle fractures or scalp damage due to forceps delivery causing subcutaneous bleeding—can make a newborn cry persistently on the first day. Additionally, newborns have relatively weak intestinal function and uncoordinated bowel movements, making them prone to colic, which can also lead to constant crying shortly after birth.