Sleep, baby, sleep: everything you need to know

As a (brand new) parent, your baby's sleep pattern can sometimes seem like a mystery. Do not worry, we are here to support you. Find out all about your baby's sleep rhythm, sleep regression, and helpful tips to promote those precious naps and good night's sleep. Because did you know that many of the questions asked of our maternity care professionals are about baby sleep? We answer all the questions here. 

The sleep rhythm of a baby

Each baby has his or her own unique sleep rhythm, and unraveling it can sometimes be a challenge. The biorhythm, also known as the biological clock, regulates the rhythm of hormone production. Newborn babies have not yet developed this biorhythm and sleep an average of 16–20 hours a day. During the first 5 months, babies develop their own sleep rhythm, with short sleep cycles of about 45 minutes. Around six months, babies acquire a day and night rhythm. From then on, they can sleep for about 10–12 hours at a stretch in the evening and at night, with about another 3.5 hours spread over several naps during the day.

Sleep regression in babies: causes and signs

Sleep regression is a period when your baby temporarily sleeps worse. It is normal for babies to go through different developmental stages that can disrupt their sleep patterns. Sleep regression can be viewed as a milestone; your baby is sleeping less well as he/she develops and learns new skills. Your baby processes these skills during the night, leaving less time for sleep. But how do you know if your baby is in sleep regression?

• Sudden change in sleep pattern: Difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking during the night or shorter sleep cycles
• Changes in eating behavior: Your baby may want to eat more or less than before.
• Moodiness: Your baby may be more irritable than usual, harder to comfort, and more likely to be more frustrated.
• Increased need for comfort: Your baby may need your comfort and presence more in order to fall back asleep.
• Increased daytime activity: A baby in sleep regression can possibly be more restless during the day and have more difficulty playing quietly or relaxing.

Questions about your baby's sleep regression? Download the BabyManager app, our maternity care professionals are available for your day or night via chat or video call. 

Baby won't sleep: possible causes

It's no secret that some babies refuse to sleep at bedtime. Rest assured, you're not alone! Discover the possible reasons behind this sleep behavior and learn how to support your little one to fall asleep without too many tears (from both of you):

• Not tired enough: Some babies have their own sleep patterns and may have difficulty falling asleep if they are not tired enough. Do not force them to sleep; this can be counterproductive.
• Over-tiredness: An overtired baby may sleep restlessly or have difficulty falling asleep. The stress hormone plays a role in this and can cause negative sleep associations.
• Wrong sleep environment: Provide an appropriate sleep environment, not too hot or cold, with minimal light, especially for babies without a set day and night rhythm.
• Nightmares: Older babies may have nightmares, making them restless in their sleep. Do not disturb sleep unnecessarily unless you are sure your baby is really awake.
• Medical cause: Restless sleeping may have a medical cause, such as allergies, eczema or illness. Always have this checked if you are worried.

Do you have questions or want to discuss specific sleep challenges? If so, don't hesitate to contact our passionate maternity care professionals. They have already helped thousands of parents with similar questions. Ask them via the BabyManager app,  

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Baby cries in sleep

It can be heartbreaking to hear your little one cry while sleeping. This hurts brand-new every parent, which is why we will explain to you why babies sometimes cry in their sleep.

Many newborn babies make noises or cry during sleep in the first few months. This is because they cannot yet properly link the stages of sleep. During the transition from light to deep sleep, they may be restless. In addition, babies in the first months often wake up crying at night because they are hungry, have a full diaper or simply need your closeness.

It is important to try to identify the cause of the crying and respond to the baby's needs. Sometimes rocking or soothing can help soothe the baby and get them back to sleep.

Our tip: Before getting your crying baby out of bed, take the time to check that he is really awake. Picking him up may wake him up, and it may be more difficult to get him back to sleep. If it looks like he is still asleep, let him lie quietly and observe the situation for a while.

Does the crying persist or are you worried? The maternity care professionals at BabyManager are always there for you, including at night when you need help or have questions.