You have just changed your baby's diaper, and went to bed, to finally rest. Suddenly, you hear a loud wail. Your baby is crying, again! This time, it is the hungry cry.

But what if we tell you that you no longer have to disrupt your rest with your baby's cry for hunger? This is only possible when you already know when to feed your baby. Babies cannot tell when they are hungry, so more often than not, parents may miss to understand they are hungry, until the hunger cry starts. But there are some cues you can look for to feed your baby!

Hunger Cues In Your Baby

Increased Activity

Your baby might become more alert and active. Thinking about food can make babies excited, so you may notice them moving around more than usual.

Head-Turning

Babies often turn their heads from side to side as if searching for food.

Mouth Movements

Look for signs like opening and closing their mouth, resembling a tiny bird waiting to be fed.

Rooting Reflex

Turning their head toward the breast, chest, or bottle is a classic hunger cue.

Sucking Motions

Babies may make sucking motions with their mouths, even if they don’t have a pacifier or bottle nearby.

Lip Smacking or Drooling

Increased drooling, lip-smacking, or sticking out their tongue are all signals they’re getting ready for a meal.

Sucking on Hands or Clothing

Your baby might start sucking on their fingers, hands, or even their clothes as a sign of hunger.

Clenched Fists

Watch for little fists clenching in frustration and impatience.

Focused Eye Contact

Babies who recognize their primary feeder might stare and follow you around the room with their eyes.

Facial Expressions

A furrowed brow or a distressed look might be your baby’s way of saying, “When’s the next meal?”

The “Neh” Sound

According to Dunstan baby language, the sound “neh” just before crying often means hunger.

Also remember that hunger pangs are strong enough to wake most babies, even from deep sleep. However, if your baby consistently sleeps for extended periods, it’s important to ensure they’re feeding frequently enough for their age.

For newborns, it’s generally recommended that they don’t regularly sleep longer than 4 hours at a stretch. Occasional long naps are fine—especially if they give you a much-needed rest! However, if your baby frequently sleeps through feeding times, consult your pediatrician to determine if gentle wake-ups for feeding are necessary.

How do you know your baby is feeding well enough?

It can be difficult to ensure that your baby is well fed, especially if you are breastfeeding, or when your baby is not of the age when he can talk. However, there are signals too for this, in fact your baby also learns how to signal that they need more milk or food.

It also depends on the age. For instance, a newborn will feed often, usually every 2 to 3 hours and sometime smore often. They feed up to 12 times every 24 hours. As your baby grows, their tummies grow too, in fact the tummy grows form a size of cherry at birth to walnut in 3 days. In a week, it is at the size of plum and in a month, it is of the size of a large chicken egg.

The "I am not hungry right now" signs for babies are:

• releasing or pushing away the breast or bottle
• closing their mouth and not responding to encouragement to latch on or suck again
• open and relaxed hands (instead of clenched)
• relaxing their body and even going a little limp
• looking around and showing interest in playing or other things
• looking content and maybe even smiling
• appearing happily drowsy and ready to go back to sleep

The recent Lindsay Clancy case has renewed public discussion around postpartum mental health, particularly postpartum psychosis—a rare but severe psychiatric condition that can develop after childbirth. Experts say it is important to distinguish postpartum psychosis from the intrusive thoughts that many new mothers experience, as the two are fundamentally different.

Postpartum psychosis is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate psychiatric care. While the condition is rare, early recognition by family members and prompt treatment can significantly improve recovery.

What Is the Case About?

Lindsay Clancy, a labour and delivery nurse at Massachusetts General Hospital, is accused of killing her three children—Cora, 5, Dawson, 3, and eight-month-old Callan—at the family's home in Duxbury, Massachusetts, on January 24, 2023. Prosecutors allege she strangled them with exercise bands before attempting to take her own life by jumping from a second-floor window. Her husband, Patrick Clancy, discovered the scene after returning home.

Clancy has pleaded not guilty. Her defence argues she was suffering from severe postpartum psychosis and undiagnosed bipolar disorder, making her not criminally responsible. Prosecutors contend she "knew exactly what she was doing."

In the weeks before the deaths, Clancy wrote in her journal, "I want help. I want to be well," and had sought treatment through a postpartum depression program.

HealthandMe spoke to two health experts to understand postpartum psychosis, how it differs from intrusive thoughts, and the warning signs families should know.

What Is Postpartum Psychosis?

Dr. Shiv Prasad, Professor and Head of the Department of Psychiatry at Lady Hardinge Medical College & Smt. Sucheta Kriplani Hospital, New Delhi, explained that postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe mental illness that usually occurs within the first two weeks after delivery.

"It is considered a psychiatric emergency because the mother may lose touch with reality and may not be able to make safe decisions for herself or her baby," he told HealthandMe. Postpartum psychosis affects around 1 in 1,000 mothers after childbirth and is a psychiatric emergency.

Postpartum Psychosis Is Different From Intrusive Thoughts

Many women experience intrusive thoughts after childbirth, but experts stress these should not be confused with postpartum psychosis.

"While many new mothers experience intrusive thoughts, distressing, unwanted thoughts that they recognize as irrational and are unlikely to act upon, postpartum psychosis is fundamentally different. It involves a loss of touch with reality, with symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, extreme confusion, severe mood changes, and disorganized behavior," Dr. Sabine Kapasi, a gynecologist, Global Health Strategist, and a UN Advisor, told HealthandMe.

While intrusive thoughts are relatively common, especially in women with anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), women with postpartum psychosis may experience hallucinations, delusions, confusion, or believe they must act on false beliefs.

"The biggest difference is that women with intrusive thoughts usually know the thoughts are irrational, while women with postpartum psychosis often believe their experiences are real," Dr. Prasad said.

Experts said postpartum psychosis is treatable and that most women recover well with timely diagnosis, psychiatric care, medication and family support.

Warning Signs Families Should Never Ignore

The experts said family members are often the first to notice changes in a new mother's behavior. According to Dr. Kapasi, sudden personality changes, unusual beliefs, insomnia without feeling tired, paranoia, and hearing or seeing things that others do not are major warning signs that require immediate medical attention.

"Early identification of these red flags by families is very important. Sudden personality shifts, strange beliefs, insomnia without fatigue, paranoia, or hearing and seeing things that others do not require prompt medical attention."

Dr. Prasad said these symptoms should never be dismissed as normal postpartum stress.

"Families are often the first to notice that something is seriously wrong. Warning signs may include sleeplessness, sudden confusion, unusual behavior, hearing or seeing things that others cannot, expressing strange beliefs, or talking in a way that doesn't make sense."

He advised that if these symptoms appear, the mother should not be left alone with the baby until she has been assessed by a doctor, and urgent psychiatric help should be sought.

The experts stressed that postpartum psychosis is not a sign of weakness or poor parenting, but a medical emergency that requires compassion, immediate treatment and family support.

The Lindsay Clancy trial is ongoing. If convicted of murder, she faces life in prison without parole. If found not guilty by reason of lack of criminal responsibility, she would be committed to a state mental health facility, according to the Associated Press.

The monsoon brings welcome relief from the heat, but it also creates the perfect environment for viruses, bacteria, fungi, and mosquitoes to thrive. As a result, babies become more vulnerable to infections such as coughs and colds, diarrhoea, skin rashes, fungal infections, and mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue and malaria.

Since an infant’s immune system is still developing, they require extra care during the rainy season. Fortunately, many monsoon-related illnesses can be prevented by avoiding a few common mistakes.

Not Changing Damp Clothes Promptly

Leaving babies in damp clothes for long periods can cause discomfort, heat rash, skin irritation, and fungal infections, especially in skin folds. Whether clothes become wet from rain, sweat, or spills, they should be changed immediately. Dress your baby in soft, clean, breathable cotton clothing.

Neglecting Hand Hygiene

Hand hygiene is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent infections. Parents and caregivers should wash their hands with soap and water before touching or feeding the baby and after returning home. Anyone with symptoms such as cough, cold, fever, vomiting, or diarrhoea should avoid close contact with infants.

Also read: Breastfeeding Can Help Reduce Mothers' Risk of Type 2 Diabetes, Breast Cancer and More

Giving Stale or Improperly Stored Food

If your baby has started complementary feeding, always offer freshly prepared home-cooked meals. During humid weather, bacteria multiply rapidly in improperly stored food, increasing the risk of stomach infections. Avoid feeding leftovers that have been kept at room temperature for long periods.

Ignoring Mosquito Protection

The rainy season is associated with a rise in mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. Use mosquito nets, eliminate stagnant water around your home, and dress your baby in light, full-sleeved clothing. Avoid applying mosquito repellents directly to infants younger than two months unless specifically recommended by your paediatrician.

Also read: Study Links Excessive Screen Time To Poorer Body Image in Teens With Skin Conditions

Keeping the Home Damp and Poorly Ventilated

Damp surroundings encourage mould and fungal growth, which can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. Keep your home well-ventilated, dry wet areas promptly, and ensure that your baby’s bedding, blankets, mattresses, and soft toys are completely clean and dry before use.

Overdressing Your Baby

Many parents assume babies need extra layers during the monsoon. In reality, overdressing can lead to overheating, excessive sweating, and skin rashes. Dress your baby according to the indoor room temperature rather than the weather outside. To assess whether your baby is comfortable, feel the neck or chest instead of the hands or feet, which are naturally cooler.

Also read: Should Children Take Protein Powders? A Dietitian’s Perspective

Trying Home Remedies Without Medical Advice

Avoid steam inhalation, balms, herbal oils, over-the-counter cold medicines, or traditional remedies unless advised by your paediatrician. Honey should never be given to babies under one year of age because of the risk of infant botulism. Always seek medical advice before giving any medication or home remedy.

Taking Young Babies to Crowded Places Unnecessarily

Crowded indoor spaces such as shopping malls, family gatherings, and social events increase the risk of viral infections. Limiting unnecessary exposure, especially during the first few months of life, can significantly reduce the chances of your baby falling ill.

A baby’s first monsoon can be a worrying time for new parents, but a few simple precautions can go a long way in keeping your little one healthy and comfortable. Good hygiene, fresh food, mosquito protection, a clean and dry environment, and timely medical advice are the keys to preventing most monsoon-related illnesses.

If your baby develops persistent fever, breathing difficulty, poor feeding, repeated vomiting, diarrhoea, decreased activity, or signs of dehydration, seek medical attention without delay.

Breastfeeding is widely recognized as the best source of nutrition for infants, but its benefits extend far beyond a baby's health, experts said as part of World Breastfeeding Week, observed annually from August 1 to 7.

The theme for World Breastfeeding Week 2026 is "Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works," focusing on tracking progress, evaluating impact and scaling proven approaches that improve breastfeeding outcomes.

While providing essential nutrition for babies, breastfeeding also offers significant long-term health benefits for mothers. Studies show it can help lower the risk of several non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular disease
• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer

According to the World Health Organization, scaling up breastfeeding could prevent nearly 400,000 child deaths and around 140,000 maternal deaths every year.

How Breastfeeding Protects Mothers

Dr. V. Mohan, Chairman and Chief Diabetologist at Dr. Mohan's Diabetes Specialities, told HealthandMe that women who have had gestational diabetes and breastfeed for longer are considerably less likely to develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

According to Dr. Asha Dalal, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital, breastfeeding helps the body recover after pregnancy by improving glucose metabolism, increasing insulin sensitivity and gradually using the fat stores built up during pregnancy.

"These changes support better metabolic health and may lower the risk of chronic diseases later in life. Studies also suggest that the longer a woman breastfeeds, the greater the health benefits, although even shorter durations can have a positive impact," she said.

Dr. Dalal added that while breastfeeding is not a guarantee against NCDs, it is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

"When combined with a balanced diet, regular physical activity and routine health check-ups, it can contribute to better long-term health for mothers. Lactation is not just about nourishing the baby—it also gives the mother's body an opportunity to reset and recover metabolically after pregnancy," she said.

Benefits Extend to Mental Health

Breastfeeding also supports maternal mental well-being by stimulating the release of oxytocin, often called the "feel-good" hormone. Oxytocin promotes relaxation, strengthens the bond between mother and baby, and may help reduce the risk of postpartum depression.

Dr. Smriti Uppal, Senior Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Pacific One Health, described breastfeeding as "nature's first gift of love, nourishment, and protection" for a child while also strengthening a mother's health.

"Breastfeeding also supports a mother's mental well-being by releasing hormones such as oxytocin, which encourage relaxation and bonding. Every mother's experience is unique, and while breastfeeding may sometimes require patience and support, its lifelong benefits for both mother and child are remarkable," she said.

Dr. Uppal stressed that support from families, healthcare providers and communities is essential to help more mothers breastfeed successfully and improve the health of future generations.

Supports Recovery After Childbirth

Dr. Tripti Raheja, Director - Obstetrics & Gynaecology at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, told HealthandMe that breastfeeding speeds up recovery after delivery by helping the uterus return to its original size and reducing the risk of postpartum haemorrhage.

She added that breastfeeding has also been linked to a lower risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, while strengthening the emotional bond between mother and baby.

Breastfeeding May Lower Diabetes Risk

Dr. Mohan said breastfeeding is especially important for women who develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

"Women who have had gestational diabetes and breastfeed for longer are considerably less likely to develop diabetes themselves. Test every pregnancy. Then support every mother to breastfeed. It costs almost nothing and protects two lives," he said.

He explained that high blood sugar during pregnancy exposes the baby to excess glucose, increasing the child's risk of obesity, insulin resistance and eventually type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Mohan also noted that many Indian babies are born with a "thin-fat" body composition—lower muscle mass but relatively higher body fat—which increases their long-term metabolic risk.

How Breastfeeding Protects Babies

Experts say breast milk provides complete nutrition along with antibodies and enzymes that help protect infants from infections, allergies and illnesses during early life.

Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months, followed by continued breastfeeding alongside complementary foods, supports healthy growth, reduces the risk of childhood obesity and may lower a child's future risk of metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.

Dr. Uppal added that breast milk is economical, always available at the right temperature and requires no preparation, making it a convenient and sustainable feeding choice.

She said encouraging breastfeeding through families, healthcare providers and communities can improve the health of both mothers and children, making it a valuable investment in future generations.