During the first few weeks of life, crying is the only way your baby can comunicate her needs, and she may cry for up to five hours a day!
Most commonly, a baby cries because she is hungry but a number of other situations - discomfort, loneliness and boredom - triggers this response.
A regular caregiver soon learns to recognise the different cries which indicate the various causes, but sometimes your baby will cry for no discernible reason.
This no doubt upsets and frustrates even the most confident parent, but remember, don't take your baby's crying personally; simply comfort and reassure her with your presence.
It is important that you respond to your baby's cries within a few minutes.
The longer you leave your baby to cry, the more distressed she becomes.
If left to cry, she becomes even more upset, making it more difficult for you to interpret the original source of her anxiety.
Babies whose cries are ignored become non-responsive as they mature.
Be reassured: you won't spoil your baby if you respond to her cries. You will, however, communicate to her that her needs matter to you and that they will be met.
Offering a dummy
Many babies find dummies comforting but parents worry they may affect a baby's teeth.
In fact, they are not damaging to a child's bite during the first year and most children abandon them more readily than their thumbs.
A dummy should be kept sterile, never sweetened or tied around your baby's neck; nor should it be a substitute for a parent's love and attention.
Is she too hot?
A young baby can quickly overheat because her body's temperature 'control' system takes months to become fully operational.
Feel the back of her neck to see if she is too hot. If she is, remove any blankets or a layer of her clothing.
Does he have an upset tummy
Your baby may be crying because of gas pains in his stomach after feeding.
Try laying your baby across your knees on his stomach or upright against your shoulder and gently rub his back.
Is he lonely?
Most babies don't enjoy being separated from their parents.
If you cannot be in the same room as your baby, return frequently or talk to him loudly so he knows you are nearby.
Is he insecure?
Your baby may need comforting.
Sucking is always pleasurable and even though he is not hungry, he may need to feel something in his mouth for reassurance. Offer him your breast or a dummy.
Is she bored?
Your baby may need something to interest her.
Even a small baby may stop crying if you give her a toy to play with or a mobile to distract her.
Is she overstimulated?
Too much fuss and activity surrounding your baby can be bewildering.
Swaddle your baby, take her to a quiet room and gently rock her in your arms.