Bringing home a newborn is a magical experience, but it can also be incredibly challenging, especially when it comes to ensuring your little one gets the rest they need. One common struggle many parents face is getting their newborn to sleep comfortably on their back. In this guide, we'll explore why some newborns may resist back sleeping and provide actionable tips for tired parents who are struggling with this issue.
Understanding Newborn Sleep Challenges
Newborns are adjusting to life outside the womb and that can be really challenging. One of the biggest adjustments for newborns is learning to sleep on their back, as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for safety reasons (SIDS reduction, the Back to Sleep campaign). However, some newborns may resist this position due to various factors, including:
- Muscle Tension and Tightness: Newborns' muscles are still developing, and some may experience tension or tightness that makes sleeping on their back uncomfortable.
- Startle Reflex: The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, can cause newborns to startle themselves awake when placed on their backs, leading to disrupted sleep and discomfort.
- Reflux or Digestive Issues: Some newborns may experience reflux or digestive discomfort, which can be exacerbated by lying flat on their back.
- Sensory Preferences: Like adults, newborns may have sensory preferences for certain sleep positions or environments, leading them to resist sleeping on their backs.
Tips for Helping Your Newborn Sleep on Their Back:
While getting your newborn to sleep comfortably on their back may seem daunting, there are several strategies you can try to ease their discomfort and encourage restful sleep. Here are some actionable tips for tired parents who are struggling with this issue:
- Use Swaddling: Swaddling can help soothe newborns and prevent the startle reflex from waking them up. Use a lightweight, breathable swaddle blanket to ensure your baby stays comfortable and safe while sleeping on their back.
- Provide Gentle Massage: Gentle massage can help relax your newborn's muscles and ease tension or tightness that may be contributing to their discomfort. Use gentle, circular motions to massage your baby's back, arms, and legs before bedtime to help them settle into sleep.
- Try White Noise: White noise machines or apps can create a soothing environment for your newborn and mask any background noise that may startle them awake. The gentle sound of white noise mimics the sounds your baby heard in the womb, providing a sense of comfort and familiarity.
- Try warming their sleep space: Use a heating pad to warm their sleep space so they’re not transferring to a cold surface. Always check the temperature of the surface before lying them down if you do this!
- Transfer them onto their side, then gently roll them to their back: Typically, a transfer is done by putting a baby straight down on their back, but if you place them down on their side and then gently roll them to their back, you may have more luck at keeping them there on their back
- Practice Tummy Time: Incorporating regular tummy time into your newborn's daily routine can help strengthen their neck and back muscles, making it easier for them to sleep on their back. Start with short sessions of tummy time several times a day and gradually increase the duration as your baby grows.
- Experiment with Sleep Surfaces: Some newborns may find certain sleep surfaces more comfortable than others. Experiment with different sleep surfaces, such as a bassinet, crib, or pack-n-play, to see if your baby prefers one over the other.
- Seek Support: If you're struggling to help your newborn sleep comfortably on their back, don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician, lactation consultant, sleep consultant, or pediatric physical therapist for guidance and support. They can offer personalized advice and strategies tailored to your baby's specific needs.
Navigating newborn sleep can be challenging, but by understanding why some babies resist sleeping on their backs and implementing actionable tips and strategies, you can help your little one get the rest they need for healthy growth and development. Remember to prioritize your own well-being as well and seek support if you're feeling overwhelmed. With time and patience, you'll find a sleep routine that works for your family, ensuring both you and your newborn can rest peacefully.
