If your newborn isn’t sleeping, or only sleeps for very short periods, you’re not alone — and you’re not doing anything wrong.
This is one of the most common worries new parents have, especially in the first few weeks. Many parents expect newborns to sleep peacefully for extended periods, but the reality is quite different. Newborn sleep is unpredictable, fragmented, and often exhausting.
Understanding why your newborn isn’t sleeping can help you worry less and cope better during this intense phase.
Newborn sleep is very different from adult sleep
Newborns are not born with a mature sleep cycle. Their nervous system is still developing, which means:
- They sleep in short bursts
- They wake frequently
- They don’t know the difference between day and night
- They need closeness to feel safe
In the early weeks, sleeping for 30–90 minutes at a time is completely normal.
Common reasons your newborn is not sleeping
1. Hunger (yes, even right after feeding)
Newborn stomachs are tiny. Breastfed babies digest milk quickly, and growth spurts can increase feeding needs suddenly.
Cluster feeding — when babies want to feed very frequently — is normal and often happens in the evening or at night. This doesn’t mean your baby isn’t getting enough milk.
2. Developmental changes (often called leaps)
Even in the newborn phase, babies are adjusting rapidly to life outside the womb.
During these early developmental changes:
- Babies may be more unsettled
- Sleep may become lighter
- They may want to be held more
These phases are temporary, but they can feel intense while you’re in them.
3. Colic or general tummy discomfort
Some newborns experience colic or digestive discomfort, especially in the first 6–8 weeks.
Signs can include:
- Crying that seems intense or hard to soothe
- Pulling legs up
- Fussiness after feeds
- Difficulty settling flat
Colic is not caused by something you did. It’s thought to be related to an immature digestive system and usually improves with time.
4. Poo, gas, and digestion changes
Newborn digestion is still learning how to work.
Your baby may:
- Strain or grunt before pooing
- Wake due to gas
- Be uncomfortable passing stools
This is very common and doesn’t necessarily mean constipation or a problem. Many newborns wake during digestion because their bodies are still figuring it all out.
5. Temperature: too hot or too cold
Newborns are sensitive to temperature changes.
If a baby is:
- Too hot → they may be restless and unsettled
- Too cold → they may wake frequently and cry
A good rule of thumb is to dress your newborn in one more layer than you’re wearing, and check their chest or back (not hands or feet) to judge warmth.
6. Overstimulation (the often-missed reason)
This is something many parents don’t realise.
Newborns can become overstimulated very easily by:
- Bright lights
- Noise
- Too much handling
- Visitors
- A busy day
An overstimulated newborn may look tired but struggle to settle. Quiet, dim environments and gentle routines can make a big difference.
7. They just want to be held
Inside the womb, babies experienced constant movement, warmth, and closeness.
After birth, sleeping alone in a quiet, still space can feel unfamiliar. Many newborns sleep better when held, rocked, or worn in a carrier. This does not create bad habits — it meets a biological need for comfort and safety.
What is actually normal for newborn sleep?
It is normal for newborns to:
- Wake every 1–3 hours
- Sleep more during the day than at night
- Only sleep when held
- Be noisy sleepers
- Have unpredictable sleep patterns
Sleep often begins to feel slightly easier after the first 6–8 weeks, but every baby is different.
When should you seek advice?
While frequent waking is normal, you should talk to a health professional if your newborn:
- Is not gaining weight
- Is very difficult to wake for feeds
- Has very few wet nappies
- Seems unusually lethargic
Trust your instincts — you know your baby best.
A gentle reminder for parents
If your newborn is not sleeping, it does not mean:
- You are failing
- You’re doing something wrong
- Your baby will never sleep
This phase is intense, but it is temporary.
Many parents say the hardest part of the newborn stage is not knowing what’s normal. If this article reassured you even a little, you’re already doing a great job.
You are not alone — and this will get easier
One day, your baby will sleep longer. For now, focus on support, rest where possible, and maintain realistic expectations.
You’re learning together.