Ask any parent of a newborn child and they will tell you through bleary eyes that babies cry. Crying is how infants communicate their need for sleep, hunger, their desire to be held, pain, and more.

But how do parents know what their babies are trying to say when they cry? It can be difficult to understand what they are trying to tell you, especially when they are very young.

Here are some of the reasons that infants cry. If your baby is crying and you can't figure out why, then go down the last and you may find something that will help.

Your Baby is Hungry

Some of the most common signs of hunger will help you to start feeding your baby before he or she begins to cry. These include smacking their lips, putting their hands to their mouths, being fussy, or rooting.

Rooting is a reflex that newborns have. When you stroke their cheek and they turn their head in the direction of your hand your baby is rooting.

Your Baby's Diaper is Dirty

While some babies can deal with a dirty diaper for a long time others will cry right away. This is one of the first things you'll want to check.

Your Baby is Tired

Contrary to what a lot of adults think, babies often have a hard time falling asleep. This is especially true if your baby is over tired. Babies tend to get cranky when they are exhausted. You may try to put your baby to sleep as soon as you see their fist yawn. Or you can just hold your baby close and talk to him softly. Soon your baby may close his eyes and drift off to sleep.

Your Baby Wants to Be Held

Most adults love to be held. Why do you think your baby would be any different? Babies need to be cuddled. They like to hear their parent's voices and look up into their faces. They even like your unique smell.

When a baby cries she may just be telling you that she wants you to hold her close.

And don't worry about spoiling your child. During their first several months of life it's impossible to hold your baby too much.

Your Baby Has Gas

Your baby might have stomach troubles that are associated with colic or gas. When that happens they may seem to be inconsolable. They can cry for hours at a time, and it can go on for several days a week.

If this happens right after he is fed then your baby may be feeling some sort of stomach discomfort or pain.

If you think that it's gas then you can try putting your baby on his back and holding his feet. Then gently move his legs as if he was peddling a bicycle.

If that doesn't work then the best thing to do is to see your doctor. Ask the doctor if you should try gripe water, which is made from sodium bicarbonate and herbs, or over the counter anti-gas drops.