Evie Summers
Newborns fussing in their sleep is a common issue faced by parents. The phenomenon, known as the witching hour, usually occurs when the baby is between 2 to 3 weeks old and can last up to 3 to 4 months of age. There are numerous reasons why newborns fuss in their sleep, including hunger, wet or soiled diapers, being too hot or cold, digestive issues, illness, abdominal pain, gassiness, overstimulation, and overtiredness. Establishing a bedtime routine and understanding the baby's sleep cycles can help parents address and prevent fussing. Additionally, techniques such as soft whispers, gentle rocking, swaddling, and providing a calm environment can help soothe a fussy newborn.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time of day | Fussiness may occur at a certain time of day, regularly, and for seemingly no reason. |
| Age of newborn | Fussiness is common in newborns 2-3 weeks old and tends to recede around 10-12 weeks of age. Fussiness may also be caused by separation anxiety, which typically begins around 8-9 months. |
| Hunger | Newborns may be fussy because they are hungry. |
| Diaper | A wet or soiled diaper may be the cause of fussiness. |
| Temperature | Newborns may be fussy because they are too hot or cold. |
| Sleep schedule | Newborns may be overtired or have an irregular sleep schedule. |
| Overstimulation | Newborns may be fussy due to overstimulation from bright lights, sounds, or changes in their environment. |
| Illness | Fussiness may be a sign of illness or digestive issues. |
| Gas | Newborns may be gassy or have a sensitive tummy, leading to fussiness. |
| Routine | Establishing a bedtime routine can help prevent fussiness. |
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What You'll Learn
Hunger or feeding issues
Hunger is one of the most common reasons for newborns to be fussy at night. Newborns have small stomachs and need to be fed frequently, including at night. If your baby is fussy after a feed, it could be due to a sensitivity to the formula or something in your breast milk. It could also be that your baby is not getting enough milk, as milk flow tends to be slower at night.
If your baby is fussy and squirmy, they may be experiencing gas. This could be due to an imperfect latch during breastfeeding or bottle feeding, which can allow excess air into your baby's stomach. Gas can also be a result of your baby's immature digestive system, which can make it difficult for them to pass gas.
To soothe a hungry or gassy baby, try the following:
- Feed your baby more frequently, especially during the early evening when your milk supply may be lower.
- Consult with your baby's paediatrician if you suspect a sensitivity to formula or breast milk.
- Burp your baby after feeds to release any excess air.
- Try gentle rocking or bouncing to help your baby release gas and settle down.
- Use a product like the SNOO sleeper, which rocks your baby and plays white noise to soothe them.
Remember, it may take some time to understand your baby's unique needs, so be patient and don't hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals for advice.
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Temperature control
Dressing for Sleep
It is recommended to dress your baby in clothing designed for sleeping. This typically includes a one-piece sleeper or a sleep sack. Avoid overdressing your baby. As a general rule, your baby should wear one additional layer than you would wear to feel comfortable in the same environment. For example, if you would wear two layers of clothing in the room, your baby should wear three.
Crib Placement
Place the crib away from direct sources of heat or cold, such as windows, drafts, and radiators. Avoid placing the crib in direct sunlight, as it can make your baby too warm. Ensure that the crib is positioned in a well-ventilated area to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Room Temperature
The ideal room temperature for a baby's sleep is around 68 to 72°F (20 to 22°C). This range may vary slightly depending on your baby's preferences and the climate you live in. If you feel comfortable in the room without additional layers, it is likely a suitable temperature for your baby.
Regular Checks
Check on your baby regularly to ensure they are not too hot or cold. Feel their chest or back to gauge their body temperature. If your baby feels sweaty or their skin is flushed, they may be too warm. On the other hand, if their skin is cool to the touch or they seem uncomfortable, they may be too cold. Adjust their clothing or the room temperature as needed.
Safe Sleep Practices
To prevent overheating, avoid using loose blankets or crib bumpers. Instead, opt for sleep sacks or swaddles that are designed to keep your baby warm without covering their head or face. Ensure that your baby's head remains uncovered during sleep to prevent overheating and reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
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Separation anxiety
While there are many reasons why a newborn may fuss in their sleep, one reason could be separation anxiety.
- Getting upset, clingy, and possibly crying when you try to leave them
- Acting shy or withdrawn around strangers or familiar people
- Struggling to sleep through the night, waking up crying, and refusing to sleep without the caregiver present
- Screaming or having a tantrum upon separation
- Crying when dropped off at daycare or someone's home
- Wanting the caregiver next to them when falling asleep
If your baby is experiencing separation anxiety, there are several methods to help ease their distress:
- Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule with familiar routines, such as a bedtime story, a warm bath, or soft music, can provide comfort and reduce anxiety.
- Introducing a transitional object, such as a blanket or soft toy, can help the child feel secure when the caregiver is not present.
- Keeping goodbyes short and sweet and making simple adjustments to your routine can help keep things predictable and reassure the child that you will return.
- Cuddling and comforting your child when you are together can help them feel more secure and better able to handle separations.
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Overstimulation
To prevent overstimulation, it is important to create a calm and soothing sleep environment for your newborn. This can include maintaining a cool and comfortable temperature in the room, using soft lighting or darkness, and playing white noise or calming sounds such as a heartbeat or nature recordings. Swaddling your newborn in a soft blanket can also provide a sense of security and comfort, similar to the womb environment.
Additionally, you can try to limit stimulation before bedtime. Take your newborn to a quiet, dark room, and avoid too much activity or exposure to bright lights and screens. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can also help signal to your newborn that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep. This routine can include activities such as a warm bath, soft music or a lullaby, and a gentle massage to help your baby relax and release any built-up tension.
If your newborn is already fussing in their sleep due to overstimulation, you can try to gently rock or sway them to soothe and calm them down. More vigorous movements, such as bouncing or jiggling your baby, can also help to flip on the calming reflex and settle them down. However, always ensure that you support your newborn's head and neck during any movements and never shake them.
Remember, every baby is unique, and it may take some time to understand exactly what your newborn needs. Don't be afraid to try different soothing techniques and strategies to figure out what works best for your little one.
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Digestive issues
If your newborn is fussy in her sleep, it could be due to digestive issues. One common issue is gas, which can make your baby very uncomfortable and fussy. If your baby is feeling gassy, they may wriggle a lot, arch their back, or grunt as they try to pass it out of their tiny digestive system. Another sign of gas is if your baby is visibly trying to push. If you are breastfeeding, an imperfect latch could allow excess air into your baby's stomach, so make sure the latch is correct. The same concept applies to bottle feeding, as air in your baby's gastrointestinal tract will make them uncomfortable and need to burp or pass gas.
Another digestive issue that could be causing your newborn's fussiness is reflux. If your baby has reflux, they may only be comfortable sleeping upright or on you. They may also be gassy or have a sensitive tummy.
It's also possible that your newborn is reacting to something in your breast milk or formula. If you think this might be the case, consult with your pediatrician. Keeping a food log and correlating when your baby is fussy can also help you identify any patterns.
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Frequently asked questions
There could be many reasons for this. Newborns need a lot of sleep and if they haven't napped enough during the day, they may be overtired by bedtime. They may also be hungry, have a wet or soiled diaper, be too hot or cold, or be experiencing digestive issues.
Try taking your baby to a quiet, dark room to limit stimulation and help her calm down. You could also try rocking or jiggling her with some vigour, as this can help to turn on the calming reflex.
The witching hour is a period of increased fussiness in newborns, which tends to occur around 6 weeks and usually ends by 3-4 months. It often coincides with when you're most tired, just after dinner or at night.
Try to establish a bedtime routine, as healthy sleep habits can start from the newborn stage. You could also try babywearing, as being close to your heartbeat is extremely comforting for your baby.
