PURPLE Crying

Posted on November 19th, 2025

Purple crying describes a normal phase in a baby’s development in which they get fussy or cry for long periods of time. It usually starts around 2 weeks of age and ends around 3 to 5 months of age. All babies go through this period – some babies cry a lot and some far less, but they all go through it.

Peak of crying – Your baby may cry more each week; the most at two months, then less at three to four months.

Unexpected – Crying can come and go and you don’t know why.

Resists soothing – Your baby may not stop crying no matter what you try to do.

Pain-like face – A crying baby may look like they are in pain, even when they are not.

Long-lasting – Crying can last as much as five hours a day, or more.

Evening – Your baby may cry more in the late afternoon and/or evening.

Learn more about the Period of PURPLE Crying at https://dontshake.org/purple-crying.