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Why Do Babies Cry Right After Birth?
Crying after birth can reveal a lot of crucial health aspects of your baby. It is a natural biological process that allows the lungs to expand and take in the first breath. It also shows their transitions from the womb to the outside world.Doctors assess the health of newborns using an APGAR score within the first minute of their birth and then again at five minutes after birth.
- Appearance (skin colour)
- Pulse (heart rate)
- Grimace (reflexes)
- Activity (muscle tone)
- Respiration (breathing and crying)
Why Might Twins Not Cry at the Same Time?
Different Birth Positions and Timing
Twins are born one after the other, so the first one may have a smooth passage out due to their head-down position and cry quickly after birth. However, the second twin may be in a breech (feet-first) or transverse (sideways) position and may require more assistance to be born. It can also delay their crying. Individual Lung Development
Twins do not always share identical features, so the lung maturity may also differ.- Preterm twins (born before 37 weeks) may have underdeveloped lungs.
- One twin could need more medical help before they cry.
Birth Stress Levels
Labour and delivery are equally stressful for your babies. One twin may experience more pressure than the other, which affects their breathing and crying.Personality and Temperament
Newborns also show personality differences, so one twin may be naturally quieter and less reactive. The other one may be expressive and cry loudly from the beginning.Medical Factors
Medical reasons can also delay crying in your baby.- Mild breathing difficulties
- Temporary low oxygen levels
- Need for stimulation from doctors or nurses
Should You Worry If Only One Twin Cries at Birth?
Many twins are healthy even if they do not cry at the same time. The doctors and nurses are equipped to handle such situations. They will quickly assess the breathing, heart rate, and reflexes of both babies after birth and provide instant care if required. As a parent, you may not stop worrying until you know everything is fine, but remember the following points.- Immediate medical checks matter more than crying at the same time.
- Most delayed cries resolve within a few minutes.
- The medical team will not leave your baby unattended if there are concerns.
Practical Advice for Parents of Twins
1. Create a Checklist for Peace of Mind
Check the aspects listed below in your babies.- Stable breathing in both babies
- Pink skin colour, and not bluish
- Regularly taking feeds (breast or bottle)
- A minimum of 6 wet diapers throughout the day
- Steady weight gain in both babies
2. Watch Out for Warning Signs
You should consult your doctor immediately if you notice the following signs.- Difficulty in breathing
- Continuous weak crying or no crying at all
- Poor feeding or refusal to take feeds
- Lethargy (baby not waking up for feeds)
- Bluish lips or skin
The Emotional Side: Coping as Parents
You may feel anxious when you don't hear your newborn's cry. Remember that the differences in twins begin right after birth.- Lean on your partner: Share your concerns and offer each other emotional support.
- Ask questions freely: Doctors know that new parents are curious and anxious, so do not hesitate to clear any concerns you have.
- Avoid constant comparison: Each twin will develop at their own pace, so please be patient.
When to See a Doctor After Discharge
Visit your paediatrician regularly after you go home to discuss whatever concerns you have about your babies.- One twin is crying less or more than the other
- Difficulty calming one baby consistently
- Unusual or high-pitched crying
What to Do Next as a Twin Parent
- Educate yourself about normal newborn behaviours.
- Track your babies' feeding, crying, and sleeping patterns in an app or notepad.
- Stay connected with your paediatrician and attend all follow-up appointments.
- Join support groups to share your experiences and hear those of others.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Why Twins Might Not Cry at the Same Time After Birth?
- Is it dangerous if one twin doesn't cry immediately?
Doctors observe the babies closely after their birth and attend to any emergency immediately. This step also makes sure that your baby is safe. - Can delayed crying affect long-term development?
A baby that is growing well and breathing normally will not face any difficulty in their skills development at later stages due to a delay in crying. - How can I determine if one twin is crying less due to a health issue?
The presence of alarming signs, such as difficulty breathing, poor feeding, bluish discolouration of the skin, or drowsiness, indicates that you should seek medical care to avoid potential complications.
