Having a full night’s sleep seems like a distant dream after having a baby, but when your infant isn’t sleeping through the night, it can feel like an impossible goal. Rest assured, you’re not alone, and understanding the reasons behind your baby’s disrupted sleep can help you manage things better.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Sanjay Manchanda, Chairperson, Sleep Medicine, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi shed light on the common causes and solutions for this incredibly common parenting challenge.
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How Much Sleep Does A Baby Need?
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Newborns are known for their awfully long sleep patterns, typically requiring sleep for 16 to 18 hours a day. However, these hours are often broken into smaller chunks, leaving parents wondering when their baby will settle into a regular day/night routine.
It’s essential to note that sleeping through the night is a developmental milestone that varies from baby to baby. What works for one might not work for another, but creating the right environment for the baby will help them sleep better as Dr Manchanda notes.
Ask Yourself; Is The Atmosphere Conducive to Sleep?
One of the most significant factors affecting a baby’s sleep is their environment. Dr Manchanda explains that babies are sensitive to their surroundings and highlights, “If the parents are awake, the light is on, and there’s activity in the room, the baby may struggle to sleep. For them, it might feel like playtime,” he notes.
To help your baby rest, our expert suggests taking these measures.
- Create a dark room as darkness signals the body to release melatonin, a hormone that aids sleep.
- Set the right temperature and ensure the room is comfortable, not too hot or cold.
- Minimise distractions like loud conversations or electronics.
Dr Manchanda says, “The problem often lies not with the baby but with the atmosphere. A calming, consistent bedtime routine can work wonders in signalling to your baby that it’s time to sleep.”
Possible Health-Related Sleep Causes
Babies can’t always communicate when something is bothering them, but their sleep patterns often provide clues. If your baby is waking frequently at night, it could be stemming from feelings of pain and discomfort due to the following possible reasons.
- Colds, gas, or constipation.
- Rough clothing, an unchanged diaper, or an overly warm or humid room.
- Even small discomforts, like teething, can disrupt their sleep.
Separation Anxiety
Between 6 months and a year, many babies begin to experience separation anxiety. This natural developmental stage can make bedtime challenging as your baby may not want to be apart from you.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies sleep in the caregiver’s room for at least six months, ideally up to a year. Room-sharing can make your baby feel safe, make it easier to feed your baby at night, and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
If your baby struggles with separation anxiety, try comforting them without overstimulating. Gentle pats, soft shushing sounds, or a lullaby can help them feel secure.
An Overstimulated Baby
Too much stimulation, whether physical or sensory, can mess with a baby’s sleep schedule. This might include over-excitement during playtime, too many visitors and interactions, caffeine consumption by a nursing mother/caregiver, which can affect the baby through breast milk.
Keeping daytime activities balanced and calm as bedtime approaches can help your baby wind down and transition to sleep more easily.
Tips To Ensure Your Baby Sleeps Better
- Establish a predictable bedtime routine, such as a bath, gentle massage, and bedtime story, signals to your baby that it’s time to rest.
- Monitor feeding times as hunger can wake a baby. Ensure they are well-fed before bedtime but avoid overfeeding, as it could lead to discomfort.
- Use soft, breathable fabrics without scratchy tags or seams to ensure your baby is comfortable throughout the night.
- If your baby is old enough, consider sleep training methods that involve gradually teaching them to self-soothe and settle independently.
- Our expert says, “If the environment and routine are perfect but sleep problems persist, consult a paediatrician or sleep specialist to rule out any underlying health issues.”
It’s easy to feel frustrated when your baby isn’t sleeping through the night, but it’s essential to remember that this phase won’t last forever. Babies grow and develop at their own pace, and with the right care and environment, they’ll eventually establish healthy sleep habits. Small adjustments to your baby’s routine and environment can make a difference.
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Conclusion
Your baby’s sleepless nights may feel overwhelming, but understanding the reasons behind them can provide clarity and ease your anxiety. Whether it’s adjusting the environment, ensuring your baby’s comfort, or managing separation anxiety, these practical tips can help you and your baby get the rest you deserve. Stay patient, new moms and dads, you got this!