Why might a newborn cry more in the evening?
Some babies have fussy periods later in the day. The timing alone can’t tell you why your baby is crying.
The short answer
Some babies cry more in the afternoon or evening, while others don’t. The timing doesn’t prove hunger or identify a cause. Check for common needs, comfort your baby and contact a professional if the crying is unusual or your baby seems unwell.
Some babies cry more in the afternoon or evening
The NHS crying guidance says afternoon and evening are common times for babies to cry more. It also describes crying increasing around two weeks and gradually reducing around three months. These are broad patterns, not a prediction for one baby.
A baby may be hungry, tired, uncomfortable, looking for a cuddle or overstimulated. Sometimes the reason is unclear. A time of day pattern doesn’t identify a cause or show that a baby needs a different feeding schedule. Follow your baby’s cues and any care plan.
Try one gentle response at a time
Check whether your baby may be hungry, needs a nappy change, is too warm or cold, or wants to be held. A calm voice, close contact or gentle movement may help some babies. If you’re breastfeeding, a feed may be part of how you comfort your baby. Follow your feeding plan and stop a method that isn’t helping.
If another caregiver is available, hand over a practical task and say what you have already tried. A short note can help with memory if a health professional has asked you to track a pattern. It can’t explain the crying or predict when it will stop.
Ask for support when you need it
Contact a health professional if crying is constant, can’t be soothed, sounds different from usual or comes with signs your baby is unwell. Use your local urgent or emergency service for severe symptoms or an immediate concern. NHS contact routes are specific to the United Kingdom.
Another caregiver may be able to take a shift or handle a household task. For practical night support, read ways a partner can help while one parent breastfeeds. Ask your care team if you’re worried.
Sources and further reading
Sources checked 12 October 2026. This page doesn’t replace advice from your own doctor.