As the saying goes, a baby who sleeps grows, and getting enough sleep is essential for a baby's growth. How much sleep is appropriate for a newborn baby? This time, we will talk about newborn sleep.

How many hours do newborns sleep?

Newborn babies, from birth to 28 days old, spend most of the day sleeping. Although it varies from person to person, it is common to sleep for about 15 to 20 hours. In other words, we sleep 60-80% of the day, but it's normal to wake up every 2-3 hours and sleep in short bursts, rather than sleeping all the time. He still doesn't know the difference between day and night, and he wakes up and cries every few hours during the night, so it's a difficult time for moms and dads who have to take care of him every time.

When do you wake up?

They often wake up and cry when they are hungry or their diapers are dirty. Newborns have small stomachs and can only drink milk or breast milk in small quantities, so they quickly become hungry. They also have a small bladder, so their diapers need to be changed frequently.
Also, since they are just born and are not used to the outside environment, they are sensitive to even the slightest stimulation. They often wake up in response to sound or light.

What do you do while you're awake?

Once I wake up, I stay awake for about 40 minutes.
During that time, it would be a good idea to make time for physical contact by sleeping together, rubbing his body, or holding him. We also recommend talking to your child kindly, singing to them, and reading picture books aloud.
Newborns spend a lot of time sleeping, so waking time is precious. Communication is also very important in terms of emotional education. Let's spend it with lots of love.

I feel like I'm sleeping too much, is that okay?

Adequate sleep is essential for the development of your baby's body and brain. The amount of sleep you need varies from person to person, so in most cases you don't need to worry even if it's longer than the average amount of sleep.
If your baby is drinking a lot of breast milk or formula and is gaining weight steadily, it is a sign that they are growing well. If there is no abnormality such as facial color or breathing that is different from usual, please let your dog sleep slowly.

Is there anything I should be careful about while sleeping?

The most important thing to be aware of is the risk of choking. Be careful not to block your nose and mouth with bedding, etc.
Furthermore, although the cause of ``Sudden Infant Death Syndrome'' (SIDS), in which a previously healthy baby suddenly dies while sleeping, is still unknown, research has shown that the incidence is higher if the baby is placed to sleep on its stomach. Sleep on your back unless you are advised to sleep on your stomach for medical reasons. Sleeping on your back can also help prevent suffocation accidents.

Should I wake up when I can't get up?

There is no need to force your child to wake up unless they are feeling unwell, such as if they are groggy, have a red face and fever, or are breathing heavily.
However, if your baby stays asleep for more than 5 to 6 hours, or if your baby's urine is less colored or darker in color, you should wake him up and feed him.
Like adults, babies alternate between REM and non-REM sleep. If you suddenly wake your baby up while he is sleeping deeply, he may end up crying and not be able to breastfeed. When your child is in a light sleep, they may move their body or react to the sounds around them, so be sure to time this and gently wake them up by calling out to them.

Do you sometimes not sleep?

Newborn babies are supposed to sleep all the time, but they often don't sleep well, or wake up right after they do.
There are several possible causes. In addition to physiological issues such as being hungry due to insufficient breastfeeding or bloating due to burping or constipation, there is also the possibility that the room temperature is uncomfortable due to hot or cold conditions. It can also be caused by skin problems due to chafing or stuffiness from diapers and clothing, and problems such as nasal congestion.

What do you do when you don't sleep?

First, check to make sure your pet is hungry, has a dirty diaper, has skin problems, etc., and create a comfortable sleeping environment. The ideal room temperature for babies is 26 to 28 degrees Celsius in summer and 20 to 23 degrees Celsius in winter. Measure and adjust the temperature on the floor or crib where your baby is sleeping. Another point is to make sure your baby sleeps in a dark and quiet place.
If your child does not fall asleep and continues to cry violently even after all possible causes have been addressed, there may be an underlying health problem. If it persists for a long time, please consult your doctor.

What is the key to getting to bed?

As mentioned above, it's common for newborns to wake up easily or have a hard time falling asleep. There is no need to force your child to sleep.
Having said that, I want you to sleep somehow... In such cases, we recommend that you lie down with your baby and gently pat your baby on the back, or listen to the sound of a sandstorm on the TV, which is similar to the sounds inside the womb. Some children seem to fall asleep when you hold them in your arms and tap them, or when you walk around the room and give them rhythmic vibrations. Give it a try.

Mom can also take a break while the baby is sleeping.

If a mother still suffering from childbirth is unable to sleep at night, her physical and mental fatigue will be on the verge of reaching its limit. While the baby is sleeping, mom should also get as much rest as possible.
There may be a lot of work to do, such as cleaning and laundry, but the priority is mom's health. Let's say it's OK to do housework to the bare minimum. One way is to use housekeeping services, if necessary.