Miya Pearson
Newborns generally sleep for 12 to 16 hours in a 24-hour period, but this is spread out into smaller chunks throughout the day and night. This is because newborns don't know the difference between day and night and don't have established sleep-wake rhythms. They also have tiny stomachs, so they wake up frequently to be fed or changed. In this article, we will explore newborn sleep patterns and behaviours, and provide tips for helping your newborn sleep more at night.
Why is my newborn only sleeping for short periods?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleep cycles | 20-50 minutes long |
| Sleep patterns | No established sleep-wake rhythm |
| Feeding | Need to feed every 2-4 hours |
| Crying | Increased crying at 6-8 weeks |
| Self-soothing | Need to be rocked, swaddled, or held |
| Sleep environment | Should be quiet and calm |
| Routine | Important to establish a routine |
| Sleep regression | Temporary, due to illness, teething, etc. |
| Sleep training | May be necessary after 5-6 months |
| Sleep duration | 11-19 hours over 24 hours |
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What You'll Learn
Newborns need to feed often
Newborns generally sleep for 12 to 16 hours in a 24-hour period, with some newborns sleeping up to 18 or even 19 hours a day. However, they sleep in short bursts, known as sleep cycles, which are usually around 20 to 50 minutes long. This is because newborns need to feed very often, about every 2 to 4 hours, depending on whether they are breastfed or bottle-fed. Breastfed babies feed more frequently, about every 2 to 3 hours, while bottle-fed babies tend to feed less often, about every 3 to 4 hours.
Newborns need to feed so often because they have tiny stomachs, and they need to be fed small amounts frequently to get all the nutrients they need. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), babies should be fed when they seem hungry. In the first few months of life, this is very often, and newborns eat every two to three hours. By two months, babies will feed every three to four hours, and by six months old, the time between feedings stretches to every four to five hours.
It is important to create a feeding routine with your newborn in the first three months. During this time, your baby is learning how to feed and developing a routine with you. It is also important to remember that being breastfed or formula-fed does not impact the age at which your baby will sleep through the night. Using a sleep routine that prioritises your newborn’s feeding needs, rather than trying to establish a strict sleeping routine, is recommended.
In addition to feeding, there are other reasons why newborns wake up frequently and sleep for short periods. For example, they may be too hot or too cold, or they may be experiencing teething discomfort. Newborns also do not know the difference between day and night, and it may take a few weeks for their brains to develop this distinction. To help your newborn learn this difference, you can keep things quiet and calm during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes, with low lighting. You can also let your baby fall asleep in their crib at night so they learn that it is the place for sleep.
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They have yet to develop a circadian rhythm
Newborns generally sleep for 12 to 17 hours in a 24-hour period. However, this sleep is spread out into smaller chunks throughout the day and night, especially during the first few months. Newborns need to feed around the clock, so it is normal for them to wake up frequently for feedings. They also have tiny tummies, so they get hungry not long after feeding. As a result, newborns sleep in short bursts, known as sleep cycles, which are usually around 20 to 50 minutes long.
Newborns do not know the difference between day and night. They have yet to develop an internal 24-hour rhythm, or what adults know as a "circadian rhythm," that tells them when they should be awake and when they should sleep. It may take a few weeks for a newborn's brain to develop this rhythm. During this time, newborns may start sleeping on a day/night reversal schedule, sleeping well during the day but staying awake at night.
To help your newborn develop a circadian rhythm, you can teach them that nighttime is different from daytime. During the day, open the curtains, play games, and don't worry too much about everyday noises when they sleep. At night, keep things quiet and calm during feedings and diaper changes. 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.
It is important to keep in mind that every baby is different, and there is a wide range of what is considered normal sleep for a newborn. Some babies may start sleeping through the night (for 5-6 hours at a time) by 2-3 months of age, while others may take longer.
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They are uncomfortable
Newborns generally sleep in short bursts, known as sleep cycles, which are usually around 20 to 50 minutes long. These short bursts of sleep and wakefulness are normal and an important part of your baby's growth. Newborns wake up a lot because their tummies are tiny, and they get hungry not long after feeding. Hunger is a common reason for babies to wake during the night. Breastfed babies, in particular, will feed often, about every 2 to 3 hours. Bottle-fed babies tend to feed less often, about every 3 to 4 hours.
Being uncomfortable is another reason why newborns may wake up during the night. Swaddling your baby can help keep their arms and legs still so they don't move and wake themselves up. You can also try putting them to sleep in a small crib, which may help them feel snug and secure. However, if you notice that your baby is trying to roll over while swaddled, this is a sign that you should stop swaddling them.
Another way to help your newborn sleep better is to establish a sleep routine. It may take a few weeks for your baby's brain to know the difference between night and day. To help them understand this difference, keep things quiet and calm during middle-of-the-night feedings and diaper changes. Try to keep the lights low and avoid playing with or talking to your baby. This will send the message that nighttime is for sleeping. Additionally, let your baby fall asleep in their crib at night so they learn that it's the place for sleep.
It's important to remember that every baby is different, and there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution to newborn sleep patterns. If you are concerned about your baby's sleep habits or have specific questions, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional, such as your baby's pediatrician or a maternal and child health nurse.
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They are overtired
Newborns generally sleep for 14 to 17 hours in a 24-hour period, waking up frequently for feedings both day and night. However, this sleep is spread out into smaller chunks throughout the day and night, especially during the first few months. This is because newborns have tiny tummies, and they get hungry not long after feeding. These short bursts of sleep and wakefulness are normal and an important part of your baby's growth.
If your newborn is sleeping for short periods, it could be because they are overtired. Overly tired infants often have more trouble sleeping at night than those who've had enough sleep during the day. To help your newborn get the rest they need, try to keep them awake a little longer during each waking period during the day. This will help increase their need for sleep later. Some sleep experts recommend playing with your baby for a few minutes after a feeding instead of letting them fall asleep.
It's also important to create positive sleep associations for your newborn. For example, you can swaddle your baby at night, which can help keep their arms and legs still so they don't move and wake themselves up. You can also try putting them to sleep in a small crib, which may help them feel snug and secure. Another way to create positive sleep associations is to teach your baby that nighttime is different from daytime. During the day, open the curtains, play games, and don't worry too much about everyday noises while they sleep. At night, keep things quiet and calm during 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.
It's important to remember that every baby is different, and there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to newborn sleep. Be patient with your baby and yourself during this time, and don't hesitate to reach out to your baby's pediatrician or a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
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They are in an unfamiliar environment
Newborns generally sleep between 12 and 17 hours in a 24-hour period. However, this sleep is spread out into smaller chunks throughout the day and night, especially during the first few months. This is because newborns need to feed often, and their tiny stomachs do not hold enough breast milk or formula to keep them satisfied for long. They also do not know the difference between day and night and need time to develop an internal 24-hour rhythm.
If your newborn is sleeping in an unfamiliar environment, this could be a reason why they are only sleeping for short periods. Newborns can be sensitive to changes in their surroundings, and an unfamiliar environment may make them feel insecure or uncomfortable. Here are some tips to help your newborn feel more secure and comfortable in a new environment:
- Stick to a familiar sleep routine: If possible, try to maintain the same sleep routine that you use at home. This includes bedtime rituals such as reading a story, singing a lullaby, or giving them a pacifier. Consistency can help your baby feel more secure and settle more easily.
- Create a comfortable sleep space: Make sure the sleep area is safe and comfortable. Bring familiar items such as their favourite blanket or stuffed toy. Ensure the room temperature is comfortable, as being too hot or too cold can disturb their sleep. Additionally, keep the sleep area free from hazards, such as hanging cords or blinds, and remove any plush toys, pillows, or loose bedding to prevent the risk of SIDS.
- Expose them to natural light during the day: Natural light can help regulate your newborn's circadian rhythm and promote the development of their internal clock. Open the curtains or spend time outdoors during the day to help them differentiate between day and night.
- Provide a calm and soothing atmosphere: A calm and soothing atmosphere can help your newborn relax and feel more secure. Keep the lights dim and speak softly when it's time for sleep. You can also play soft music or use white noise to create a peaceful environment.
- Swaddle your baby: Swaddling your baby can provide a sense of comfort and security, mimicking the snug environment of the womb. It also helps keep their arms and legs still, preventing them from waking themselves up with their startle reflex.
- Offer extra comfort: Your newborn may need extra comfort in an unfamiliar environment. Cuddling, rocking, and singing to your baby can help them feel loved and secure. Skin-to-skin contact, especially with the primary caregiver, can promote relaxation and improve sleep.
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Frequently asked questions
Newborns generally sleep in short bursts, known as sleep cycles, which are usually around 20 to 50 minutes long. They wake up frequently for feedings both day and night as their tummies are tiny, and they get hungry not long after feeding.
Newborns should get 14 to 17 hours of sleep over a 24-hour period, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Some newborns may sleep up to 18 to 19 hours a day.
You can try swaddling your baby at night, which can help keep their arms and legs still so they don't move and wake themselves up. You can also try putting them to sleep in a small crib, which may help them feel snug and secure. You should also teach your baby that night-time is different from daytime from the start. During the day, open curtains, play games and don't worry too much about everyday noises when they sleep. It's also important to create a safe sleep environment for your baby.
