Sleep Regression

Just when you think you have your baby sleeping throughout the night, he/she starts waking up again. There are many causes for why your baby may all of a sudden wake up in the middle of the night, (teething, sickness, or temperature of room) but most commonly it’s a sleep regression. Sleep regression is a period of time (usually about 2 to 6 weeks long) when a baby experiences poor sleep after he/she has had a history of sleeping well. Sleep regressions usually coincides with growth spurts and the baby's body trying to figure out the sleep cycle all over again.

When to Expect a Sleep Regression

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*Time frames vary from baby to baby
  • 4 Months 
  • 8 Months (could be 9 Months or 10 Months)
  • 11 Months (or 12 Months)
  • 18 Months
  • 2 Years

How to Overcome a Sleep Regression

First breath!!!! I know this is going to be a tough time for you to go through, however it won't last long. With each sleep regression you will be teaching your baby habits to fall asleep without your help. Here are a few tips to help you get through this phase:

  • Stick to a routine.
  • Don't be afraid to give extra feedings (since sleep regressions coincides with growth spurts your baby may be hungrier than normal).
  • Let your baby know you are their to comfort him/her (do not create new habits or go to old ones that your baby has dropped as this will make it more difficult for you).
  • Get your baby to bed earlier - it may take awhile for your baby to fall asleep so go to bed earlier to avoid over tiredness.
  • Get help - sleep regressions can be exhausting and can cause you to loose sleep. Ask your partner or family/friends to help out so you can get some rest as well.
  • Keep calm as babies can sense stress. If you feel overwhelmed, then put your baby in a safe crib and collect your thoughts and calm down. Letting your baby cry for a few minutes is not going to harm him/her.