It’s common for newborns to resist going to sleep or falling asleep. Fighting sleep and having trouble settling are very normal at this age. There are several reasons why newborns fight sleep:
Being overtired
Newborns often end up overtired because they can’t communicate when they need to sleep. When overtired, their nervous systems go into overdrive, making it even harder for them to relax and fall asleep. Signs of an overtired newborn include fussiness, crying, jerky arm and leg movements, and rubbing eyes.
Immature nervous system
A newborn’s nervous system is still immature. The part of the brain that regulates sleep and waking isn’t fully developed. This can make it hard for newborns to transition between active alertness and deep sleep.
Trouble linking sleep cycles
Newborns sleep in cycles, each lasting 30 to 50 minutes. They wake up at the end of each cycle. Most adults learned to link these cycles so we sleep through the night. Newborns haven’t mastered this skill yet. So they fully wake up often.
Hunger or discomfort
Newborns may resist sleep when they have wet diapers, are too hot or cold, or feel hungry. Meeting their needs first can help them settle down to sleep.
Startle reflex
Newborns are wired to be easily startled. Loud noises, bright lights, and even their own sneezes can wake them up. Swaddling, white noise, and low lighting help minimize startles.
FOMO (fear of missing out)
Newborns are adjusting to an exciting new world. They don’t want to miss any of the action by sleeping. This FOMO leads to fighting sleep.
Purple crying
Some newborns cry more in the late afternoon and evening. This predictable fussiness is called “purple crying.” It peaks around 2 months and eases up by 4-5 months old. During these crying spells, babies have trouble calming down and falling asleep.
Habit
If allowed to form, bad sleep habits can cause newborns to fight sleep. Rocking them to sleep or letting them nap too long during the day can lead to these habits.
Temperament
Some babies are just more sensitive and active than others. These innate traits can make them prone to fighting sleep.
Reflux
Newborns with reflux find it painful to lie down. The acid in their stomachs comes up and causes burning. They will scream and resist sleep to avoid discomfort.
When does fighting sleep peak?
Newborns fight sleep the most from 2 weeks to 3 months old. Their sleep patterns start maturing around 3 months. After this peak period, babies get better at self-soothing and falling asleep on their own.
What can you do when your newborn fights sleep?
While some sleep struggles are inevitable, you can try these tips to help a restless newborn:
Watch for sleep cues
Put your newborn to bed at the first signs of drowsiness – yawning, rubbing eyes, zoning out.
Stick to a schedule
Follow the eat-play-sleep routine to avoid an overtired baby.
Create a sleep-friendly environment
Use a white noise machine, blackout curtains, and cool room temperature.
Try swaddling
Most newborns sleep better when snugly swaddled in a blanket.
Give a pacifier
Sucking is soothing and helps babies settle down.
Hold or wear your newborn
Skin-to-skin contact and babywearing can help calm a fussy, overtired newborn.
Give a warm bath
Baths relax babies and prime them for sleep.
Go for walks
Riding in a stroller or carrier may rock your newborn to sleep.
Try white noise
The womb was noisy. White noise reminds newborns of those soothing sounds.
Avoid stimulation
Keep the lights low and voices quiet when it’s nearing bedtime.
Ask for help
Take turns with your partner so you both get breaks.
Change diapers proactively
Newborns sleep better with a fresh, dry diaper.
Address reflux
Talk to your pediatrician about treating reflux if it interferes with sleep.
Work on day/night reversal
Make daytime feeds and activities more stimulating to reset the clock.
Improve daytime sleep
Helping your newborn nap better during the day results in better nighttime sleep.
Keep wake windows short
Newborns can only stay awake 1-2 hours. Put them to bed before they get overtired.
When to call the doctor
While some struggle with sleep is normal, contact your pediatrician if your newborn:
- Fights sleep round the clock
- Can’t stay asleep for more than brief naps
- Naps less than 9-10 hours total per day
- Is falling asleep while feeding
These may be signs of an underlying issue, like reflux, that needs medical treatment.
Conclusion
Fighting sleep is a rite of passage for newborns. Their tiny bodies are still learning how to regulate sleep. While frustrating, these battles will pass. With loving support and consistency, your newborn will soon become an expert sleeper.