It’s very common for babies to go through fussy periods, especially around 3 weeks old. Here are some quick answers to questions about dealing with a fussy newborn:
What causes fussiness in a 3 week old?
There are a few common reasons babies become more fussy around 3 weeks of age:
- Growth spurts – Baby is needing more milk as they go through a growth spurt.
- Overstimulation – Baby’s senses are heightened and they may get overstimulated easily.
- Digestive issues – Tummy troubles from gas, reflux, or constipation can cause fussiness.
- Developmental leap – Baby’s brain is developing rapidly which can cause fussiness.
- Need for comfort – Baby wants more snuggles, skin-to-skin contact, and comfort from caregivers.
How long does the 3 week fussy period last?
The fussiness typically peaks around 3 weeks and improves by 4-6 weeks old. Each baby is different, but generally the fussy stage lasts about 2-4 weeks as babies adjust to their new world outside the womb.
What are the signs of a fussy 3 week old?
Signs your 3 week old is extra fussy include:
- Crying more frequently or for longer periods
- Needing to be held more
- Difficulty soothing or calming down
- Pulling legs up or arching back
- Turning away or rejecting feedings
- Acting extra sensitive to sound, touch, or light
- Trouble sleeping or frequent night wakings
What can you do to soothe a fussy 3 week old?
Here are some tips for soothing a fussy baby:
- Hold baby skin-to-skin
- Give baby a warm bath
- Go for a walk outside
- Play soft music or white noise
- Gently rock or bounce baby
- Offer a pacifier for comfort sucking
- Swaddle baby snugly
- Try baby massage or gentle touch
- Take baby for a ride in the car
When should you call the doctor about fussiness?
Call your pediatrician if your baby has any of these red flags along with fussiness:
- Fever over 100.4°F/38°C
- Inconsolable crying, especially a high-pitched cry
- Signs of dehydration – dry lips/mouth, lack of tears, few wet diapers
- Excessive vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Blue-tinged skin, tongue, or lips
- Rash or change in skin color
- Not eating well for over 24 hours
Trust your instincts if your baby seems sick. It’s always better to have them checked than to wait when something doesn’t seem right.
What if nothing seems to soothe my fussy 3 week old?
The key is trying different soothing techniques to see what works best for your baby. Have patience, take breaks when you need them, and know that this phase will pass. Some other tips:
- Ask for help – recruit family or friends to give you a break
- Babywear – keep baby close in a sling or carrier
- Reduce stimulation – lower lights, noise, activity around baby
- Check baby’s sleep schedule – adjust naps as needed
- Burp baby frequently – relieve any gas buildup
- Give a pacifier – helps meet need to suck for comfort
- Try gentle motion – rocking, stroller or car rides, baby swing
- Play white noise – provides a soothing, constant background sound
If you’ve tried everything, remember this phase is temporary. Contact your pediatrician if you have ongoing concerns about excessive crying, feeding issues, or other problems.
Is it normal for babies to get fussy in the evening?
Yes, it’s very common for infants to get fussy and unsettled in the evenings. This is sometimes referred to as the “witching hour” or “fussy hour.”
Possible reasons for evening fussiness include:
- Overstimulation – Baby is worn out after a long day.
- Disrupted sleep schedule – Baby is getting tired earlier than usual.
- Over-tiredness – Baby is overtired and having trouble winding down.
- Need to cluster feed – Baby wants more frequent feedings before bedtime.
- Digestive discomfort – Tummy troubles get worse as the day goes on.
- Growth spurts – Baby needs more milk with evening growth spurts.
- Temperature regulation – Baby has a hard time adjusting body temperature.
- Colic – Some babies simply have fussy periods, often in the evening.
Patience, understanding, and extra soothing techniques can help babies through this rough time until it passes.
When does colic most often occur in babies?
Colic is most frequent and intense in the early months of a baby’s life. The peak age for colic is often cited as 2-3 months old. However, some colicky babies start showing symptoms at 2-3 weeks old, which overlaps with the common 3 week fussy period.
According to the [using a table] below Colic Symptoms Usually Peak at This Age:
| Age Range | Peak of Colic |
|---|---|
| 2-4 weeks old | 50% of colicky babies start |
| 4-6 weeks old | 80% of colicky babies start |
| 6-8 weeks old | ALL colicky babies start |
| 2-3 months old | Colic peaks in intensity |
| 3-4 months old | Colic starts improving |
| 4-5 months old | Most babies outgrow colic |
Keep in mind that colic is diagnosed based on excessive, frequent crying in an otherwise healthy, well-fed infant. Call your pediatrician if you suspect your fussy 3 week old may have colic.
What’s the difference between colic and normal fussiness?
Both colic and normal fussiness involve bouts of crying and unsettled behavior. Here are some key differences:
- Severity – Colic involves intense crying that can’t be soothed, while normal fussiness is less severe.
- Duration – Colicky crying lasts 3+ hours a day, 3+ days a week, for 3+ weeks. Normal fussiness is more intermittent.
- Timing – Colic crying often peaks in the late afternoon and evening. Normal fussiness can happen anytime.
- Triggers – Colic crying seems to come on for no reason. Normal fussiness can often be linked to hunger, sleepiness, etc.
- Consolability – Colicky babies are extremely difficult to console. Normal fussy babies can usually be calmed.
If your baby’s crying seems extreme, lasts for prolonged periods, and is inconsolable, colic may be the cause. Discuss your concerns with your pediatrician.
What things should I avoid if my 3 week old is extra fussy?
When trying to calm a fussy 3 week old, here are some things it’s best to avoid:
- Overstimulation – Limit exposure to loud noises, bright lights, hectic environments.
- Missing naps – Overtired babies get more upset. Follow baby’s cues for when to nap.
- Skipping feedings – Hungry babies cry more. Offer smaller, more frequent feeds.
- New foods – Avoid introducing solids until about 6 months old.
- Too much handling – Pass baby around less to give them space.
- Harsh movements – Avoid sudden, jerky movements that can disturb baby.
- Tummy time after feeds – Wait 30 minutes before play or exercise after eating.
- Unfamiliar settings – Bring baby to calm, familiar places and caregivers.
- Loud white noise – Use lower volume, consistent background noise.
- Too many visitors – Limit visits with extended family/friends until after the fussy stage.
Being aware of baby’s sensitivities and signals can help prevent extra fussiness. Focus on keeping things simple, soothing, and stable.
What are some safe ways I can get a break when my 3 week old is very fussy?
Caring for a fussy newborn is draining, so taking breaks is important. Some safe ways to get a break include:
- Ask your partner or support person to take over
- Have someone watch the baby while you take a walk or shower
- Let baby nap in a crib/bassinet while you do self-care
- Wear baby in a front pack during tasks so your hands are free
- Work in shifts with your partner – one rests while the other cares for baby
- Hire a responsible babysitter to give you time away
- trade childcare with other parent friends
- Take the baby for a ride in a stroller or car
- Put baby in a safe, enclosed space like a crib with some toys
- Let baby cry 5-10 minutes in a safe space while regrouping
Remember to take breaks BEFORE you reach the end of your rope. Getting regular breathers will give you patience and energy to ride out this challenging stage.
What expectations should I set for managing a fussy 3 week old?
Here are some realistic expectations to have when dealing with a fussy 3 week old:
- You WILL get overwhelmed and frustrated sometimes – this is a tough phase!
- The crying and fussiness will come and go in waves – baby won’t always be upset.
- Some days will be better than others – don’t get discouraged by bad days.
- Your baby loves you even if they seem inconsolable – it’s not your fault.
- This too shall pass! – Remind yourself regularly that it won’t last forever.
- You may have to adjust your routine until the fussy stage ends.
- Help from others will be invaluable – don’t try to do everything alone.
- Self-care will likely get put on the backburner – do what you can to stay balanced.
- Household chores can wait – comfort your baby first and foremost.
- You’re doing an amazing job – be patient and gentle with yourself.
Keep reasonable expectations, be flexible, and know that you and your baby will get through this together!
Conclusion
It’s common for babies to go through a fussy period around 3 weeks old as they adjust to life outside the womb. Growth spurts, digestive issues, overstimulation, and developmental leaps can all cause extra fussiness. Be patient, try different soothing techniques, take breaks when needed, and contact your pediatrician if you have any concerns. Remember that this phase will pass as your baby gains skills and their senses mature. With time, the fussiness will improve and you will get more of those delightful newborn smiles and coos! Just take things one day at a time and show yourself compassion.