Sleep and the Newborn Baby.

Coping with Sleep Deprivation as a New Parent

Bringing home a new baby is magical, but it can also be overwhelming, especially when sleep is scarce and your baby’s needs seem endless. Here’s a guide to understanding newborn sleep and tips for managing this challenging time:

Newborn Sleep (Birth to 1 Month)

Babies sleep a lot in their first month—about 16 to 18 hours a day—but not all at once. They sleep in cycles of 2 to 3 hours, day and night, without any sense of time. This might seem strange, but it's simply how they’re wired.

Active Sleep:Babies start with Active Sleep (similar to our REM sleep), which helps their brain grow. They’re easily woken, responding quickly to any change in their environment. This instinct for awareness has roots in ancient times when staying close to a caregiver was essential for survival.

The Comfort of Proximity:Babies have an innate need to be close to their caregivers for warmth, nourishment, and safety. This instinct helps them feel calm and secure, essential for their growth and development.

By Two Weeks: A Subtle Shift

At around two weeks, you might notice a slight change in your baby’s sleep, with some starting to sleep more at night. However, they will still need frequent comfort and feeding. This phase is part of their rapid brain growth, which continues in the form of Active/REM sleep.

Around One Month: Growing and Adjusting

At one month, your baby’s sleep may start to consolidate, with some showing longer stretches at night. But growth spurts can still disrupt their sleep patterns. Frequent waking is still normal, as it supports their brain and physical development. As babies grow, they gradually move toward more restful Quiet Sleep, but they’re not there yet.

The Reality of Modern Baby Sleep

In today’s world, we often expect babies to “sleep through the night.” But research shows that frequent waking is part of healthy development. Even babies who appear to sleep soundly may wake up quietly.

Remember, these sleep patterns are tied to ancient survival needs, not modern expectations. Close contact with caregivers continues to offer amazing benefits, such as better stress regulation, emotional security, and cognitive development.

Coping Tips for Parents

Simplify Life and Accept Help

• Make things easier by getting your partner to take on some responsibilities.

• Lower your standards—things don’t need to be perfect right now.

• Accept help from family and friends, and if possible, consider paid support for tasks like housework or cooking.

Prioritise Your Health and Wellbeing:

• Like putting on your own oxygen mask first, take care of your physical and mental health before anything else.

• This will help you build the energy and resilience you need to care for your baby.

Understand Normal Sleep Patterns and Check for Underlying Issues:

• Frequent waking is normal. If you’re concerned, check for any underlying issues such as feeding problems or mouth breathing, and consult your doctor if needed.

Encourage Movement and Fresh Air:

• Fresh air and daily walks can help your baby sleep better by promoting physical tiredness. Playtime outside is great for developing positive sleep habits.

Trust Your Instincts and Let Go of “Shoulds"

• You know your baby best. Trust your instincts and focus on what feels right for your family.

• It's not easy but avoid getting overwhelmed by conflicting advice. Try to stay focused on the present.

Remember This Stage Won’t Last Forever

• Sleep deprivation won’t last forever, and things will change as your baby grows. Be present and know that challenges now don’t mean they’ll last.

Celebrate the Small Moments:

• Every small act of love and care counts, even on tough days. Recognise your efforts, as every little thing you do matters.

This period of parenthood is a journey of discovery. Take it one day at a time, cherish the small moments, and remember that all the love and care you give will benefit your baby’s long-term health and development.

For up-to-date, evidence-based sleep advice, visit [Basis Online](https://www.basisonline.org.uk).

Content adapted from Lindsay Hookway and Kathryn Stagg, IBCLC.

Marion Frey AlQurashi Certified Lactation Specialist & Mindfulness Breastfeeding Practitioner.