Newborn crying jags are inevitable. Your job is to figure out why your baby is crying and what — if anything — you can do about it. Consider what your baby may be thinking:

• I'm hungry. Most newborns eat every few hours around the clock. Some babies become frantic when hunger strikes. They may get so worked up by the time the feeding begins that they gulp air with the milk, which may cause spitting up, trapped gas or more crying. To avoid such frenzy, respond to early signs of hunger. If your baby begins to gulp during the feeding, take a break.
• I need to burp. During and after each feeding, take time to burp your baby. But don't stop there. Your baby may need to burp between feedings as well.
• I pooped. For some babies, a wet or soiled diaper is a surefire way to trigger tears. Gas or indigestion may have the same effect. Check your baby's diaper often to make sure it's clean and dry.
• I'm tired. Tired babies are often fussy. Make sure your baby is getting enough sleep. For newborns, this often means up to 16 hours — or even more — every day.
• I'd rather be bundled. Some babies feel most secure in a swaddle wrap. Snugly wrap your baby in a receiving blanket or other small, lightweight blanket.
• I want to move. Sometimes a rocking session or walk through the house is enough to soothe a crying baby. In other cases, a change of position is all that's needed. Keeping safety precautions in mind, try a baby swing or vibrating infant seat. Weather permitting, head outdoors with the stroller. You may even want to buckle up for a ride in the car.
• I'm lonely. Sometimes simply seeing you, hearing your voice or being cuddled may stop the tears. Gentle massage or light pats on the back may work, too.
• I'm hot. A baby who's too hot or cold is likely to be uncomfortable. Add or remove a layer of your baby's clothing as needed.
• I want to suck on something. Sucking is a natural reflex. For many babies, it's a comforting, soothing activity. If your baby isn't hungry, try a clean finger or pacifier.
• I've had enough. Too much noise, movement or visual stimulation may drive your baby to tears. Move to a calmer environment or place your baby in the crib. White noise — such as a recording of ocean waves or the monotonous sound of an electric fan or vacuum cleaner — may help your baby relax.
• It's just that time of day. Many babies have predictable periods of fussiness during the day. There may be little you can do but comfort your baby as the crying runs its course.
• My tummy hurts. If you're breast-feeding your baby, he or she may be fussier than usual after you eat spicy or gas-producing foods. Too much caffeine may be an issue as well. If you suspect a certain food is causing trouble, avoid it for several days to see if it makes a difference