The top concern for almost all expecting parents I meet is, “How can I be sure my newborn is a good sleeper?” In the United States, we put a huge emphasis on baby sleep, and especially on getting babies to sleep through the night. Much of this is due to our demands for returning to work or the lack of support systems in the early weeks.
Many cultures rely on family or friends to help them care for the babies. Here in the US, many new parents are trying to navigate newborn sleep issues while also being sleep-deprived adults. It’s tricky! Now for the absolutely shameless plug–you should consider adding a postpartum doula to your postpartum care! Our doulas, both daytime and overnight, are here to take care of YOU so you can get caught up on sleep. We would love to be a part of your baby support team!
1. Newborns Sleep In Short Cycles
Newborns typically sleep 14 to 17 hours in a 24 hour period, but rarely in long stretches. Their sleep cycles are short, usually 45 to 60 minutes, because their brains are rapidly developing. The National Institutes of Health explains that newborn sleep is lighter and more active than adult sleep, which is why they may grunt, wiggle, or make little noises while sleeping.
2. Day/Night Confusion Is Completely Normal
Most newborns do not yet know the difference between day and night. In fact, when they were growing in the womb, they may have often slept during the day while mom was in motion, and woke up when she laid down to sleep at night! To help set their internal clock, keep daytime feedings bright and engaging, and nighttime feedings quiet and calm. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests creating a simple nighttime routine to cue your baby that sleep is coming.
What’s a nighttime routine? It could be as simple as doing a feeding, putting on a clean sleeper, turning on the noise machine, and turning off the lights. It’s the routine part that may help babies cue that it’s time to sleep. Note: in the early weeks, the routine may start at a different time each night. Watch for your baby’s sleepy cues to know when it’s time for bed!
3. Safe Sleep Should Always Come First
Even if your newborn sleeps only in short spurts, safety matters most. Always place your baby on their back, on a firm, flat sleep surface with no loose bedding. Our doulas often help parents set up sleep spaces that meet these recommendations while still feeling cozy and comforting. Homepage | Safe to Sleep Please be mindful not to fall asleep with your baby in your arms.
4. Your Baby’s Sleep Will Change A Lot
Just when you think you have figured things out, your baby will grow and hit a new milestone! This is good news, but often means sleep regressions or struggles. Growth spurts, cluster feeding, and developmental leaps can temporarily disrupt patterns. Remember that this is normal and not a reflection of anything you are doing wrong.
5. You Do Not Have To Navigate Sleep Alone
Newborn sleep is a learning curve for every family. When our doulas support new parents, we focus on realistic expectations, safe sleep environments, and gentle routines that fit your parenting style.
If you do not yet have a birth doula or postpartum doula, and you live in Iowa, we would love to chat more about how amazing doula support can be for expecting and new parents! Feel free to send me an email to Katie@theiowababylady.com.
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