Newborns typically sleep a lot, averaging about 14 to 17 hours a day. However, they do not sleep for long stretches at a time, instead waking frequently due to their small stomachs needing regular feedings. As they grow, the amount of sleep they require gradually decreases. By the time they are 3 months old, many can sleep for longer periods, and by 6 months, some may be able to sleep through most of the night.
Understanding Newborn Sleep Patterns
Newborns have their own unique sleep architecture. Their sleep is divided into two main stages: active sleep and quiet sleep. Active sleep is comparable to the rapid eye movement (REM) stage in adults, where dreaming occurs, and quiet sleep is similar to non-REM sleep. During the first few weeks of life, newborns spend almost equal amounts of time in active and quiet sleep.
Active Sleep
In active sleep, newborns may twitch, smile, suck, and breathe irregularly. This stage is crucial for brain development. It enables growth and is believed to be when learning and new experiences are processed.
Quiet Sleep
During quiet sleep, babies are more still and have a regular breathing pattern. This stage of sleep aids in physical growth and the restoration of the body.
The Importance of Sleep for Newborns
Sleep is vital for a newborn’s mental and physical development. During sleep, growth hormones are secreted, which help babies grow. The brain begins to form vital connections that allow them to learn and remember new information.
Cognitive Development
While your newborn sleeps, their brain is busy at work. Significant cognitive development occurs during these early stages of life as the groundworks of learning, memory, and problem-solving are established.
Physical Growth
Newborns do most of their growing during sleep. The pituitary gland secretes growth hormone throughout the day, but secretion peaks during sleep, underlining the importance of adequate rest.
How Feeding Affects Newborn Sleep
Newborns have small stomachs, which means they wake up to feed frequently – typically every 2 to 3 hours. Breastfed babies may wake up more often than formula-fed babies as breast milk is digested more quickly than formula. The frequent waking has an evolutionary benefit; it helps ensure that the baby intakes adequate nutrition and promotes bonding between the parent and the child.
Night Feedings
During the night, it is essential to keep feedings quiet and calm so that the baby learns to distinguish between day and night. This can help in establishing a sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm.
Sleep and Digestion
Newborns may also wake up because of digestive issues like gas or reflux. Gentle movements and holding the baby upright after feedings can help alleviate discomfort and promote better sleep.
How to Help Your Newborn Sleep
While it’s true that newborns don’t have a regular sleep schedule, there are techniques that parents can use to encourage better sleep habits from the beginning.
Establishing a Routine
Even though newborns cannot be put on a strict sleep schedule, you can start to instill a sense of night and day. Use natural light and activity during the daytime and quieter, dimly lit environments at night. This helps align their internal clock with the external world.
Safe Sleep Environment
Creating a safe sleep environment is crucial. Newborns should always be laid down on their backs on a firm mattress with no loose bedding or soft toys. This reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Soothing Techniques
Many newborns respond well to soothing techniques such as swaddling, gentle rocking, white noise, and pacifiers. These mimic the sensations of the womb and can help to lull them to sleep.
Newborn Sleep Challenges
Parents often find the irregular sleep patterns of a newborn to be one of the most challenging aspects of early parenthood.
[amazon_auto_links id="11932"]Understanding Sleep Cues
Babies give signals when they’re tired. These can include rubbing their eyes, yawning, looking away, and fussing. Responding to these cues quickly can help your baby fall asleep more easily.
Dealing with Sleep Deprivation
Caring for a newborn often means parents experience sleep deprivation themselves. It’s important for parents to seek support, sleep when the baby sleeps, and maintain good sleep hygiene to manage their own sleep needs.
When to Be Concerned
Most newborn sleep issues are not causes for concern and will resolve as the baby grows. However, there are certain instances where it is important to consult a pediatrician.
Excessive Sleepiness
If a newborn is sleeping well over 17 hours and is difficult to wake for feedings, a visit to the pediatrician is warranted, as it can be a sign of an underlying issue.
Disturbed Sleep
While it’s normal for newborns to wake frequently, if they seem particularly restless, cannot be soothed, or show signs of breathing difficulties, it could indicate a problem that needs medical attention.
Finishing Thoughts
Understanding the complex nature of newborn sleep is fundamental for new parents trying to navigate the early stages of their child’s life. Though it may be challenging at times, being aware of the reasons behind the sleep patterns, the signs of sleepiness, and ways to facilitate better sleep can make this journey a bit easier. Parents should also know when to seek help if their baby’s sleep patterns seem concerning. Adequate sleep is critical to a newborn’s development, so taking steps to ensure they get enough is one of the best things a parent can do in those first few months of life.
