Understanding Purple Crying

Crying is a normal and important part of your baby’s development. Some babies, however, go through a specific phase of increased crying called PURPLE Crying. This can be stressful for families, but it is temporary and not caused by anything you are doing wrong.

What Does PURPLE Mean?
PURPLE is an acronym that describes common features of this normal developmental stage:

• P – Peak of crying: Crying usually increases in the first few weeks of life, peaks around 6–8 weeks, and gradually improves by 3–4 months.
• U – Unexpected: Crying can start and stop suddenly, often without an obvious reason.
• R – Resists soothing: Your baby may continue to cry despite feeding, rocking, or changing.
• P – Pain-like face: Babies may look like they are in pain even when they are not.
• L – Long-lasting: Crying episodes may last longer than expected, sometimes hours.
• E – Evening: Crying often happens more in the late afternoon or evening.

What PURPLE Crying Is — and Is Not
PURPLE Crying is normal and part of healthy brain development. It does not mean your baby is sick, spoiled, or that you are doing something wrong. It will pass with time.

What You Can Do to Help
Some strategies may help calm your baby, though they may not always work:

• Hold your baby skin-to-skin or gently rock them
• Try swaddling, white noise, or a pacifier
• Take your baby for a walk or car ride
• Check basic needs (feeding, diaper, temperature)

Taking Care of Yourself Is Essential
Caring for a crying baby can be overwhelming. If you feel frustrated:

• It is okay to place your baby safely in the crib and take a short break
• Take slow breaths or ask another trusted adult for help
• Never shake your baby — shaking can cause serious brain injury

When to Seek Medical Care
While PURPLE Crying is normal, contact your pediatrician if your baby has fever, poor feeding, vomiting, lethargy, breathing problems, or if you are worried something is not right.

Remember
This phase is temporary. You are not alone, and asking for support is a sign of good parenting.If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your pediatric care team.