Why Newborns Cry or Strain Before Passing Urine or Potty — And Why It's Normal

Dr. Sandip Gupta

Many parents have asked: our small babies and newborns cry a lot before passing urine, or arch and strain their body and then pass urine — and they do the same thing at potty time too. Is this normal? The answer: This is completely normal and there is no need to panic at all. Why it happens: When urine collects in the bladder, it creates a stretch, and that is why the baby cries. The baby cannot express their feeling in any other way, so they express it by crying. As soon as they pass the urine they feel it, and they stop crying. Relevant for: new parents whose newborn cries, strains or arches the body before passing urine or potty; parents asking whether crying before urination is normal or a sign of infection; parents wanting to understand why babies cry when the bladder is full; and parents worried that their baby is in pain while passing urine or stool. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every baby is different — please consult your pediatrician if your baby cries while passing urine, has fever, passes very little urine, or seems unwell.