The Witching Hour

Welcoming a newborn into your life is a remarkable journey filled with boundless love and countless firsts. However, amidst the joy, there are inevitable challenges. One of the most notorious among them is the enigmatic “witching hour.” In today’s blog, we’ll delve deep into understanding the witching hour, its nuances, underlying causes, and practical strategies to alleviate its effects.

What is the Witching Hour?

The term “witching hour” is a colloquialism used to describe a period, typically in the late afternoon or early evening, when newborns exhibit heightened fussiness, irritability, and difficulty in soothing. Contrary to its name, this phase often extends beyond a solitary hour, sometimes engulfing several hours of intense emotional turbulence for both the baby and the parents. During this time, parents may feel overwhelmed, anxious, and exhausted as they attempt to calm their distressed infant.

When Does it Occur?

The witching hour usually manifests around 5 p.m.. With variations depending on the baby’s temperament and family dynamics, it can persist until late into the evening. While the exact duration and onset may vary, it’s common for this challenging phase to coincide with the latter part of the day. Just when parents are beginning to wind down after a long day, the witching hour tends to begin.

Common Behaviors During the Witching Hour

Newborns’ behaviors during the witching hour can range from persistent crying to increased restlessness. Other typical behaviors include difficulty feeding or settling down for sleep. This period of heightened agitation often leaves parents feeling perplexed and emotionally drained as they strive to comfort their distressed child.

Potential Reasons Behind the Witching Hour

While the witching hour’s precise etiology remains elusive, several factors are believed to contribute to its occurrence:

1. Overstimulation: Throughout the day, newborns are bombarded with sensory stimuli, ranging from bright lights to unfamiliar sounds and textures. By the evening, this cumulative sensory overload may result in a state of overstimulation. This, in turn, can lead to heightened fussiness and irritability.
2. Overtiredness: Despite their small size, newborns possess an uncanny ability to become overtired, especially as they acclimate to their new environment. The demands of feeding, diaper changes, and social interaction can leave them fatigued by the evening. All of this can exacerbate their distress during the witching hour.
3. Digestive Discomfort: Newborns’ delicate digestive systems are still maturing, making them susceptible to gas, reflux, and other gastrointestinal issues. The ingestion of air during feeding, together with the immaturity of their digestive enzymes, can contribute to discomfort and colicky symptoms during the evening hours.

Strategies to Soothe Your Baby

The witching hour can be daunting. Here are some strategies to help lessen its impact and restore calmness to your home:

1. Establish a Calming Routine: Consistency is critical when soothing your baby during the witching hour. Establishing a calming bedtime routine can signal to your infant that it’s time to unwind and prepare for sleep. This may include dimming the lights, playing soothing music, or engaging in gentle activities such as baby massage or cuddling.
2. Provide Comforting Touch: Physical contact is immensely comforting to newborns, especially during times of distress. Holding your baby close, swaddling them snugly, or gently rocking them can provide a sense of security and alleviate their agitation.
3. Experiment with Feeding Techniques: Some babies experience feeding difficulties during this time. Consider experimenting with different feeding positions or techniques. Burping your baby frequently during and after feeds can help release trapped gas and alleviate discomfort.
4. Create a Calm Environment: Minimize external stimuli during the witching hour by creating a serene environment for your baby. Dim the lights, reduce noise levels, and limit visitors to create a conducive, relaxing atmosphere.
5. Utilize Soothing Techniques: Explore various soothing techniques such as white noise machines, gentle motion, or pacifiers to help soothe your baby during this challenging period. The rhythmic sound of a heartbeat or ocean waves can mimic the womb’s comforting ambiance and promote relaxation.
6. Practice Self-Care: Remember to prioritize self-care amidst the demands of caring for a newborn. Take breaks when needed, enlist the support of loved ones, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if feelings of stress or overwhelm become overwhelming.

You Can Do This

The resilience of even the most seasoned parents can be tested during the witching hour. It’s essential to remember that this phase is transient and will eventually subside as your baby matures. By understanding the underlying factors contributing to the witching hour and implementing proactive strategies to soothe your infant, you can navigate this challenging period with confidence and grace. Above all, be patient with yourself and your baby. Cherish the precious moments of connection and joy amidst the storm. You’re not alone on this journey. With time, love, and unwavering support, you’ll emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.

Thank you for reading this weeks post, “The Witching Hour.” For more tips on all things pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood visit our weekly blog.