Gas Pain or Hunger? Causes of Nighttime Crying in Babies

What Is the Real Cause of Nighttime Crying: Gas or Hunger?

If your newborn wakes up crying frequently at night, you are not alone. Almost every parent goes through this stage. Especially during the first few months, questions like “Is my baby hungry?” or “Does he have gas again?” constantly circle in your mind.

The truth is, nighttime crying is usually normal in babies, but the reason is not always the same. Let’s take a closer look at the causes behind these silent cries.

Crying: The Baby’s Way of Communication

Babies cannot yet express themselves with words. When they are hungry, uncomfortable, or simply want attention, they react by crying. Crying is actually their way of saying, “Take care of me.”

Of course, to a sleepless mother in the middle of the night, this sound may feel endless, and things can get a little complicated.

1. Hunger: The Most Common Reason

Especially in the first months, babies have small stomachs and need to be fed frequently. If your baby starts crying two or three hours after breastfeeding, hunger is probably the reason.

• Hunger crying usually has a few distinctive signs.
• Shows a sucking reflex and tries to suck a finger or the blanket.
• The crying is rhythmic and repeats at short intervals.

Calms down immediately when picked up or when breastfeeding begins.

If your baby stops crying right after feeding, the reason is most likely hunger.

A small tip: Do not interpret every cry as hunger. Feeding too often can cause gas buildup in the stomach.

2. Gas Pain: Big Discomfort in a Small Belly

Gas pain is another major reason for nighttime crying in babies. Especially in the first three months, since the digestive system is not yet fully developed, the air trapped in the stomach can cause discomfort.

Gas pain crying can usually be recognized as follows.

• The baby’s face turns red and pulls the legs toward the tummy.
• The crying is sharper, more restless, and lasts longer.
• It starts some time after feeding, not immediately afterward.
• Even when picked up, the baby does not calm down easily.

Gas pain often increases in the evening or at night. That’s why many parents joke, “The marathon begins when the sun goes down.”

What can you do against gas pain?

• Always help your baby burp after breastfeeding.
• You can place a warm towel on the tummy or gently massage clockwise.
• Holding your baby upright on your shoulder for a while also helps.
• If gas problems happen often, review your breastfeeding position.

3. Discomfort, Cold, or Overheating

Sometimes it’s not hunger or gas  the reason for crying may be simple discomfort.

• If the diaper is wet, the bottom irritated, or the sleepwear is too warm, the baby may feel uncomfortable.
• If the room temperature is too high or too low, the baby may react in the same way.

The ideal room temperature should be around 22–24°C, with a humidity level of 40–60%. Instead of overdressing, choose breathable, layered clothes.

4. The Need for Closeness and Security

Not every cry has to have a physical reason. Sometimes the baby just wants to hear your scent or feel your heartbeat. Especially in the first weeks after birth, since they have just left the safe environment of the womb, it takes time for them to adjust to the outside world.

During these times, holding your baby, talking softly, or singing a lullaby works very well.

Some babies calm down even just by having skin contact.

Remember: the thought “If I hold my baby, they’ll get used to it” is not true. Feeling safe is a need, not a luxury, for a baby.

5. When to See a Doctor

If your baby’s crying is different from usual, lasts a long time, or is accompanied by the following symptoms, you should definitely see a doctor.

• Fever above 38°C
• Refusal to feed
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Rash or paleness on the skin
• Wheezing or difficulty breathing

These situations may indicate an illness, and getting professional help without delay is the best choice.

In summary

Nighttime crying, especially during the first three months, is a natural part of life with a baby. Sometimes it’s hunger, sometimes gas, and sometimes just the need for attention. As you get to know your baby over time, you will begin to understand what each type of crying means.

The most important thing is to stay calm and not blame yourself. Every baby is different, and not every night will be the same.

With patience, love, and a little humor, you can get through this process.