What exactly is “normal” when it comes to baby fussiness? Have you ever heard of “The Witching Hour”? Funny name, right? Especially since it’s rarely just an hour—it’s often several hours of crankiness. For most newborns, fussiness typically lasts 2 to 4 hours a day, usually in the late afternoon or evening. This phase often begins around 2 to 3 weeks of age, peaks at 6 weeks, and gradually fades by 3 to 4 months. Whether your baby is formula-fed or breastfed, this amount of fussiness is completely normal—though “normal” can vary widely.
How Do I Know if My Baby’s Fussiness is “Normal”?
Normal fussiness usually shows up during periods when your baby is more alert—often in the evening before their longest stretch of sleep. If your little one’s fussy episodes happen at roughly the same time each day, with a similar level of intensity (give or take), and they’re generally content the rest of the time, you can breathe a little easier. This is likely just a typical amount of fussiness.
Why Are Babies Fussy?
If you’re worried your baby’s fussiness might not be normal, it’s always a good idea to check in with your pediatrician. They can rule out any underlying health concerns. However, babies fuss for all sorts of reasons—overtiredness, overstimulation, discomfort, or even growth spurts. Speaking of growth spurts, these can be especially tricky. Common growth spurt ages include:
- 7–10 days
- 2–3 weeks
- 4–6 weeks
- 3 months
- 6 months
- 9 months
Another possible culprit? Foremilk-hindmilk imbalance. This happens when a breastfeeding parent has an oversupply of milk or a fast letdown. During a feed, the initial milk (foremilk) is thinner and hydrating, while the later milk (hindmilk) is creamier and more satisfying. If a baby drinks mostly foremilk, they may still feel hungry. Signs of an imbalance include:
• Short feeding sessions (less than 10 minutes)
• Persistent breast fullness after feeding
• Green, mucus-like stools instead of mustard-yellow ones after the first week of life
If this sounds familiar, a lactation consultant can help. They might suggest adjusting feeding positions (like using a laid-back or koala hold), expressing milk before feeding, or block feeding (using one breast per feeding session).
Could It Be Food Sensitivities?
Some babies are fussy due to sensitivities to certain foods in a breastfeeding parent’s diet. If you notice your baby becomes irritable after feeding, a lactation consultant can help you track possible triggers with a food journal and guide you through an elimination diet if needed.
What About Low Milk Supply?
Low milk supply can also lead to fussiness, especially if your baby isn’t gaining weight as expected. A lactation consultant can evaluate how much milk your baby transfers during a feeding. They use a highly sensitive scale to weigh your baby before and after nursing to get precise measurements.
What is Thrush, and Could It Be the Problem?
Thrush is another potential cause of fussiness. It’s a fungal infection that appears as a white coating on your baby’s tongue that doesn’t wipe away easily. You might also notice white patches on their cheeks, gums, or throat. If you suspect thrush, see your pediatrician for treatment. Thrush can affect both baby and parent, causing red, flaky, or itchy nipples and even a sharp, stabbing sensation in the breast. Your OB provider can prescribe anti-fungal medication, and a lactation consultant can help you navigate breastfeeding during treatment, offering tips for nipple care or a temporary pumping plan if nursing becomes painful.
Why Lactation Consultants are Key
While a pediatrician is often the first person parents think of when a baby is fussy, lactation consultants can be an invaluable resource, too. They have a unique focus on the parent-baby relationship and can help uncover solutions tailored to your needs.
Caring for a fussy baby can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go it alone. Supportive resources—like lactation consultants and your pediatrician—can make a world of difference. Remember, you’re not just caring for your baby; you’re also nurturing yourself in this journey.
