Any parent that has ever attempted to sleep with their baby in the same room will be familiar with their baby moving and making noises during the night. It can disrupt a parent’s sleep and may cause extra worry if you’re not familiar with the potential reasons babies grunt and squirm throughout the night.
In this blog, I will discuss the potential reasons for such noises and movements and learn how you can handle it for both your baby’s and your sleep.
1. Normal Newborn Sleep Behavior
Newborns spend the majority of their sleep in REM sleep which is a lighter stage of sleep characterized by noises, twitches, and general body movements. This means that while sleeping, a newborn will switch from one stage to another more often than an adult which makes the movement at night more prominent or noticeable.
2. Digestive System Development
Another common reason for nighttime squirming and grunting is the development of your baby's digestive system. Newborns' digestive systems are still maturing, and they often experience gas and discomfort. This can lead to squirming, grunting, and even straining as they try to pass gas or have a bowel movement. It's a normal part of their growth process, but it can be distressing for both baby and parents.
3. Reflux and GERD
Some babies may experience reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which can cause discomfort and lead to squirming and grunting at night. Reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. Babies with reflux may arch their backs, cry, and have trouble sleeping soundly. If you suspect reflux is the cause of your baby's nighttime disturbances, it's essential to consult your pediatrician for advice and potential treatments.
4. Swaddling and Sleep Environment
Even the way a baby is swaddled or the environment in which he or she sleeps can affect comfort overnight. While some babies may be comfortable being wrapped up since this provides some form of resemblance of being in the womb and helps reduce the sudden movements from their Moro reflux, not every baby will like it. Check that your baby is wrapped properly (not too snug or overheating in a too-thick garment) and that the surroundings your baby sleeps in are safe and comfortable.
5. Hunger and Growth Spurts
Babies grow rapidly, and their nutritional needs change frequently. Hunger can cause your baby to become restless and vocal at night. Growth spurts, which occur at various stages during the first year, can also lead to increased nighttime activity as your baby’s body works hard to grow. During these times, your baby may wake more often for feedings and exhibit more squirming and grunting.
Tips for Better Sleep Overnight:
While some degree of nighttime squirming and grunting is normal, there are steps you can take to help minimize it and ensure a more restful night for both you and your baby:
Create a Calm Sleep Environment
Ensure your baby's sleep environment is calm, quiet, and dark. Use white noise machines to drown out background noise and maintain a consistent room temperature.
Proper Swaddling
Swaddle your baby correctly to provide a sense of security without causing discomfort. As your baby grows, consider transitioning to a sleep sack.
Burping and Tummy Time
To help your baby pass gas, always burp your baby after feedings and carry out tummy time exercises as they make the babies stomach muscles stronger.
Monitor Feedings
Ensure that your baby maintains his/her feeding schedule and that she/he is well-fed as they go through their growing periods.
Consult Your Pediatrician
If you feel that your child may have reflux, GERD or any other related ailment, you should consult the pediatrician concerning it for him/her to recommend a course of action.
Understanding why your baby squirms and grunts at night can help you address their needs and create a more peaceful sleep environment. Remember, it's a phase that many babies go through, and with patience and the right strategies, you and your baby will eventually enjoy more restful nights.
