Caring for a Newborn Baby with Unsettled Sleep

After a new baby is born at home, parents need to provide special and careful care. During the process of caring for a newborn, parents may notice that the baby sometimes experiences unsettled sleep. When this occurs, there are various reasons that may cause it, such as excessively high indoor temperature, overly thick blankets, and so on. Therefore, parents should promptly identify the reasons and ensure that the baby sleeps comfortably.

What to Do When a Newborn Has Unsettled Sleep

1. Sucking. Whether it's the breast, bottle, the baby's own finger, or a pacifier, sucking can always have a soothing effect. Let them be close to you - use a pram or carrier to snuggle the baby close to you.

2. Massage. Various pats and massages can help calm the baby down, but avoid massaging their belly until they are four weeks old. Also, avoid the spine and the use of nut oils such as almond oil.

3. Music. Rhythmic sounds or music can help soothe a newborn, and even the hum of a washing machine or vacuum cleaner can help calm some babies.

4. Movement. Rock the baby in your arms or cradle, or push them in a pram.

5. Fresh air. Take the baby for a walk outdoors as it may not seem as bad even if the crying doesn't stop.

6. Gas. Some babies feel better after burping, so try holding the baby upright against your shoulder and gently patting their back.

7. Bath. A warm bath can immediately calm some babies, but be aware that it may have the opposite effect.

8. Environment. Take the baby to a quieter room and soothe them with gentle hugs and soft singing.

Reasons Why a Newborn Doesn't Sleep at Night

1. Sleep conditions: Check if the sleep conditions are not good, such as the baby feeling uncomfortable, too many blankets, a wet diaper, or a too-tight diaper, which can all prevent the baby from sleeping at night.

2. Calcium deficiency: If the baby is calcium-deficient, it can lead to unstable sleep. Parents should promptly supplement calcium for their baby.

3. Hunger: If the baby is not full, they will naturally cry incessantly. For a baby, filling their stomach is the most important thing.

4. Illness: If the baby has any abnormal physical conditions or is sick, they may refuse to sleep. In such cases, parents should be vigilant and seek medical help if any abnormalities are noticed.

5. Too much daytime sleep: This is also one of the main reasons that affect the baby's sleep quality at night. Therefore, parents can appropriately play with the baby during the day so that they can sleep peacefully at night.