Gina Johnson
Newborns need a lot of sleep, but they don't know the difference between night and day, and they haven't learned to settle themselves. They wake up frequently for feeds and can be unsettled by changes in their environment, such as being too hot or cold. They also need help to settle and go back to sleep, and they rely on external cues to tell them it's time to sleep, such as swaddling, a bath, or a room with dim lighting. Hunger is a common reason for babies to wake during the night, as is thirst, and they may also be in pain or ill.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Newborns sleep for long stretches | 14-17 hours in a 24-hour period |
| Newborns wake up frequently | To be fed, both day and night |
| Newborns need help to settle and go back to sleep | Swaddling, rocking, singing, cuddling, dim lighting, etc. |
| Newborns need to be fed every 3-4 hours | Until they show good weight gain |
| Newborns need to be kept warm | To prevent disturbed sleep |
| Newborns need to be kept away from excitement and stimulation | Before bedtime |
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Hunger and thirst
Newborns who sleep for longer stretches should be awakened to feed. Wake your baby every 3–4 hours to eat until they show good weight gain, which usually happens within the first couple of weeks. After that, it's okay to let your baby sleep for longer periods at night.
In the first few weeks, your baby's brain is still learning the difference between night and day. To help them learn that nighttime is for sleeping, keep things quiet and calm during nighttime feedings and diaper changes. Keep the lights low, and don't play with or talk to your baby. Let your baby fall asleep in their crib at night so they learn that it's the place for sleep.
Signs of hunger in newborns include putting their hands to their mouth, turning their head toward your breast or a bottle, puckering or licking their lips, and clenching their hands.
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Illness
Newborns are still developing their immune systems, so they are more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Colds, flu, and other respiratory illnesses are common in newborns and can cause congestion, coughing, and difficulty breathing, making it hard for them to sleep. Other common illnesses in newborns include gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhoea and vomiting, which can also disrupt their sleep.
Additionally, newborns are undergoing rapid growth and development, and this can make them more prone to illnesses. They are also exposed to various new germs and bacteria as they interact with their environment and other people. All of these factors can contribute to illness, which can then affect their sleep.
If you suspect your newborn is struggling to sleep due to illness, it is important to consult a paediatrician or a healthcare professional. They can help diagnose and treat any underlying conditions that may be causing sleep disturbances. It is also crucial to follow your newborn's sleep cues and create a soothing and safe sleep environment to promote better sleep during their illness.
Furthermore, illnesses can cause discomfort and pain, which can disrupt your newborn's sleep. For example, teething pain or an upset stomach can make it difficult for them to settle and fall asleep. In such cases, natural remedies like gentle massages can help relieve gas and soothe your baby to sleep.
Remember, illnesses in newborns can be concerning, but most of the time, they are temporary and not emergencies. However, it is always best to seek professional advice if you are concerned about your newborn's health or sleep patterns.
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Day/night reversal
One of the most common reasons why newborns struggle to sleep at night is due to a phenomenon known as day/night reversal. This is when they confuse day and night, sleeping more during the day and being awake for longer periods at night. This can be extremely frustrating for new parents, who are likely already dealing with sleep deprivation and may have been hoping for some rest once the sun goes down.
During the first few weeks of life, a newborn's circadian rhythms are still developing. Their internal body clock, which regulates sleep-wake cycles, is not yet mature, and they may not be able to distinguish between daytime and nighttime. As a result, they can end up with their sleep patterns completely reversed from what we might consider the 'normal' sleep schedule.
To help your newborn adjust to a day/night cycle, there are a few things you can try. Firstly, make a clear distinction between day and night routines. During the day, keep the environment bright and stimulating, with plenty of interaction and playtime. At night, create a calm and soothing atmosphere, keeping the lights low and minimizing stimulation.
Gradually, your newborn will start to understand the difference between day and night. You can encourage this process by exposing them to natural light during the day, especially in the morning. This will help to regulate their body clock. Additionally, establishing a consistent bedtime routine will signal to your baby that night-time is approaching, aiding their preparation for sleep.
Remember, this process takes time, and it's important to be patient with your newborn as they adjust to life outside the womb. Their sleep patterns will regulate gradually, and they'll eventually sleep peacefully through the night. Focus on creating a calm and supportive environment, and don't hesitate to ask for help if sleep deprivation becomes challenging.
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Sleep habits
Newborns follow their own sleep schedule and sleep patterns vary from baby to baby. Some sleep for long periods, while others sleep in short bursts. Some sleep through the night, while others don't. Newborns invariably wake up repeatedly in the night for the first few months.
Newborns need a cue to tell them it is time to go to sleep. This is usually something in their external environment, such as swaddling or wrapping them in a light blanket, a bath, a massage, or a room with dim lighting. A bedtime routine is predictable and calming for your baby and can prevent sleep problems.
Some newborns sleep more during the day and are wide awake at night. This is called a day/night reversal schedule. This is frustrating and exhausting for parents, but it is temporary. To help your baby learn that day is for play and night is for rest, you can keep them awake a little longer during each waking period during the day. It may take a few weeks for your baby's brain to know the difference between night and day.
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Sleep environment
Newborns have not yet learned to settle by themselves and will need your help to settle and go back to sleep. They usually need a cue to tell them it is time to go to sleep. This is usually something in their external environment, such as swaddling or wrapping them in a light blanket, giving them a bath, or putting them in a room with dim lighting.
It is recommended that newborns sleep in the same room as their parents for at least the first 6 months. This can reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). It is also important to always put your baby to sleep on their back, as sleeping on their tummy is linked to a much higher incidence of SIDS.
Make sure that all sleep surfaces and products you use to help your baby sleep have been approved by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and meet federal safety standards. Hanging mobiles, wall hangings, pictures, draperies, and window blind cords could be harmful if they are within a baby's reach. Don’t let your baby fall asleep on a product that isn’t specifically designed for sleeping babies, such as a sitting device (like a car seat), a feeding pillow, or an infant lounger.
Keep things quiet and calm during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes. Try to keep the lights low and resist the urge to play with or talk to your baby. This will send the message that nighttime is for sleeping. If possible, let your baby fall asleep in their crib at night so they learn that it's the place for sleep.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborns wake up frequently during the night to be fed. They also wake up due to hunger, thirst, illness, discomfort, or not understanding the time of day.
You can help your newborn sleep through the night by limiting daytime naps to three hours and making clear distinctions between day and night. For example, keep the baby's room dark when they nap during the day and avoid turning on the TV during nighttime feedings. You can also try to keep things quiet and calm during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes.
Some common issues that can make it harder for newborns to sleep include hunger, illness, discomfort, and not understanding the time of day. Newborns also need help settling and going back to sleep, and they often wake up between sleep cycles.
