"I invite you to send me your child health and wellness related questions. One of the the most satisfying aspects of being a pediatrician is answering parents' questions and concerns. As a doctor, I feel that the more you know about your child's health and wellness (in terms of illness, normal growth and development and, importantly, prevention), the more comfortable you can be with your kids! A new column is posted every Friday and appears on this page. Unfortunately, I cannot give personal replies but will answer as many questions as possible in my weekly column. Click on the ASK DR.PAUL Library link at the bottom of this page and you may find information on the topic that interests you." - DR. PAUL

This Week's Column

The Period of PURPLE crying

DEAR DR.PAUL: What is the period of PURPLE crying?

DR.PAUL ANSWERS: As a pediatrician I am very aware that babies often cry, and at times to the point where parents become worried and upset. The good news is that crying during the first 3 to 5 months of life is common and part of a baby's normal development. Indeed, some babies seem to cry a lot and nothing helps. During this phase of a baby's life they can cry for hours and still be healthy and normal.

Parents often worry that there is something wrong. However, even after a check-up from the doctor which shows the baby is healthy, baby continues to cry for hours, night after night. In extreme situations, a crying baby can be a source of tremendous frustration for some parents or caregivers. Sadly, at times a parent or other caregiver may shake their baby out of desperation or even anger. PLEASE REMEMBER: NEVER SHAKE A BABY AS THIS CAN CAUSE SERIOUS BRAIN DAMAGE OR EVEN DEATH.

If parents understand that bouts of crying, especially during the first few months of life are normal, they will be less frustrated and be more comfortable with their infant. In fact, all babies go through what is called the "PURPLE period" of crying. This concept was created by a mentor and colleague of mine, developmental pediatrician, Dr. Ron Barr. Dr.Barr's approach is to explain this phase to parents of newborns so that they know it is normal and be encouraged that it would end. This knowledge can reduce their frustration, anger and tendency to shake their baby.

The acronym "PURPLE", is used to describe specific characteristics of an infant's crying during this phase and let parents and caregivers know that what they are experiencing is normal. The word "period" is important because it signals that phase is temporary and will end eventually. Each letter of the word PURLE stands for something that describes this period of crying, that is essentially seen in all babies to some degree:

P: PEAK OF CRYING- Baby may cry more each week. The most at 2 months and then less at 3 to 5 months.

U: UNEXPECTED- Crying can come and go, and you do not know why.

R: RESISTS SOOTHING- Baby may not stop crying no matter what you try.

P: PAIN LIKE FACE- A crying baby may look like they are in pain even when they are not.

L: LONG LASTING- Crying can last as much as 5 hours a day, or more.

E: EVENING- Baby may cry more during the late afternoon or evening.

If you or someone you know has a newborn baby that is crying a lot, it is important to understand that in most cases, this is normal. Knowing more about you baby and the period of PURPLE crying will lessen your frustration and worries and allow you to fully enjoy your new family addition! For more information Pease visit: http://www.purplecrying.info

The information provided in this site is designed to be an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace the advice and care of your child's physician, nor is it intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect that your child has a medical condition, always consult a physician.

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