Your Newborn’s First Weeks - What to Expect

This blog was written based off an interview with Petra Cubretovic, a certified Gentle Sleep Coach® and the founder of How About Sleep.

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Can you start by explaining what parents should expect regarding their newborn's sleep patterns in the first few weeks?

In the first four weeks, if the baby is not premature, they usually sleep between 14 to 17 hours in a 24-hour period, but this can vary. Additionally, parents can expect that their baby will wake up multiple times throughout the night and day because of their baby's need for frequent feedings. This is often every 2-3 hours, and their baby may only stay awake for 30-60 minutes at a time. Overall, it is important to get to know your baby in the first few weeks and to make sure that the baby is comfortable and well-fed, establishing a sense of security that will benefit sleep later. 

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What are some of the most common sleep challenges that new parents face during this time?

Common sleep challenges would be Day Night confusion, where the baby is not able to distinguish when it is night and day, so they may sleep during the day and frequently wake more at night which can be difficult for the parents. Irregular sleep cycles are also common in the first few weeks because newborns do not have a set sleep schedule yet. In addition, feeding challenges can correlate to sleep challenges with the baby due to not receiving enough calories at each feeding which can result in more frequent wakings. 

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Do I wake up a sleeping baby?

“There is a saying, ‘Never wake a sleeping baby.’ But actually, sometimes it is better if you do. For example, often times babies lose their birth weight, which can be up to 10%, so they need to regain this weight. And in that period, pediatricians recommend to not skip meals and feed the baby regularly which is every 2 to 3 hours.”

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Once a baby is developing well and has reached their birth weight, wake a baby for a feed only if they have been sleeping for over 3 hours, except if the pediatrician recommends differently or if the baby is getting a solid 8 or more feedings within a 24-hour period. This makes it so you do not need to compensate at night. 

What are your top tips for creating a sleep-friendly environment for a newborn?

1. Ensure your baby sleeps in the same place consistently, whether it’s a crib or bassinet, to help them associate that space with sleep and create a sense of safety.
2. Dimmed lights and black out curtains allow for the baby to be able to sleep better. During the day, you can let your baby sleep where there is light, but at night, make sure that it is dark. Dimmed nightlights for nighttime feedings and diaper changes minimize disruption as well. 
3. White noise machines work wonders. They resemble the same sounds the baby heard when they were in the womb, and this also eliminates other sounds and gives them a sense of safety and security. 
4. Swaddling can help newborns feel secure and prevent the startle reflex from waking them up
5. Limit stimulating activities and loud noises close to bedtime to help your baby wind down and prepare for sleep. 
6. Establish a simple, consistent bedtime routine such as a warm bath, gentle massage, feeding, and a lullaby to signal that it’s time to sleep.

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How does feeding, whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, influence a newborn’s sleep?

There is not enough evidence to show a difference in sleep difference in sleep when comparing breastfeeding and bottle-feeding formula. However, some mothers may not have enough milk supply, and their baby may wake more frequently for feedings.

How important are naps in the first few weeks, and how can parents ensure their baby is getting enough daytime sleep?

Naps are crucial for newborns in the first few weeks of life as they significantly contribute to their overall development and well-being. During the first few weeks, sleep is not regulated, and balancing sleep and your baby’s needs can be challenging for many parents. What can help is to create a flexible yet effective sleep routine. Watch your baby’s sleepy cues and make sure your baby is awake no longer than 45-90 minutes at a time. If you see your baby showing sleepy cues, such as rubbing eyes and fussiness during this period, it’s time to put them back to bed already. 

What are the key safe sleep practices that parents should follow to ensure their baby’s safety?

1. Always place the baby on their back to sleep to reduce the risk of SIDS.
2. Make sure there is a clear sleep space and ensure that the crib is free from soft bedding, pillows, and toys the baby could easily grab.
3. Check the temperature of the room and make sure that the baby is not too hot or too cold. 

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Newborn sleep patterns can be exhausting for parents. What advice do you have for parents to manage their own sleep during this period?

“Sleep when your baby sleeps. It is not the easiest piece of advice to follow because parents feel like they have to do so many things in a day, but I would highly recommend sleeping when your baby sleeps, also during the day. To make this possible, my second piece of advice would be to ask for help when you need it. Whether it is your partner, parents, neighbors, friends.” 

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Night shifts are important as parents, especially moms, suffer from interrupted sleep at night. With night shifts, each parent can have longer stretches of sleep, which can allow them to recharge. 

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At what point should parents consider seeking help from a sleep coach or pediatrician if they’re struggling with their baby’s sleep?

It is important to consider help from a sleep coach or pediatrician as early as possible if your baby is struggling with their sleep. This is because sleep deprivation can also have a big impact on parents. In general, a lack of sleep can have a strong impact on physical and mental health. Sleep deprivation can trigger and enhance feelings of depression and influence the relationship with your partner as well. 

Finally, based on your experience, what is the most important piece of advice you would give to new parents about managing sleep in those first few weeks?

1. You can't spoil your baby’s sleeping habits at this stage, so enjoy all of the cuddles and closeness.
2. Create healthy sleep routines, and over time, create small steps at a time so your baby can learn how to fall asleep and stay asleep independently. take it slowly, and reach out if you need any advice or help.
3. Take care of yourself, as in order to give everything to your child, it is important to self-care.