There are a lot of people like you reading this with one hand on their baby and the other on a nearly cold coffee. One problem that a lot of new parents have is not getting enough sleep. There are times when nights and mornings blend together, making it hard to tell what’s normal.

The truth is, newborn sleep isn’t predictable. It doesn’t follow any pattern we’re used to. And even when we do “everything right”, some babies still wake up a lot. It’s not your fault. You’re not doing it wrong. Let’s talk through what might be going on—and what can help.

Why Newborns Sleep So Differently

Newborns sleep in a way that’s completely different from adults. Their sleep cycles are short—usually 45 to 60 minutes—and they move between light and deep sleep quickly. That’s why they wake up so easily. Add hunger, growth spurts, or gas into the mix, and sleep becomes even more unpredictable.

Some common challenges that parents face include:

Frequent Waking at Night

Waking every two to three hours is typical in the early weeks. It’s exhausting but normal. Babies wake to feed, to be held, or simply because they’re transitioning between sleep cycles.

Day and Night Confusion

Some babies think midnight is party time. That’s because their internal clock hasn’t developed yet. Over time, they’ll start to understand the difference between day and night—but it can take a few weeks.

Short Naps

Catnapping is common. A baby might only nap for 20–30 minutes before waking. It doesn’t mean they’re not tired—it usually just means they haven’t figured out how to link sleep cycles yet.

Fighting Sleep

Your baby won't settle down even though you’ve fed them, rocked them, and hummed lullabies. When they’re too tired, this often happens. It’s funny, but it gets harder for them to fall asleep as they get older.

Sleep Regressions

Just when you think you’ve got things under control, a regression hits. These are short-term times when sleep is interrupted, usually when a child is making big steps forward in growth.

What Could Be Causing the Trouble?

There’s rarely one single reason for newborn sleep issues. It’s usually a mix of things.

They’re Hungry (Again)

Newborns have tiny stomachs. Even if they’ve just eaten, they might need more a short while later—especially during growth spurts.

Too Much Stimulation

A baby can get too stressed out by a bright room, loud noises, or even too many people around. They might find it hard to settle if they’ve had a busy day.

Colic or Reflux

Because of colic, some babies cry for hours at night. Some others may have stomach discomfort that makes lying flat painful. See your doctor if your baby’s back curves, if they pull away from feeds, or if they cry after eating.

Environmental Factors

A room that’s too hot, too cold, or too bright can throw sleep off. So can scratchy clothing, noisy pets, or even a full nappy.

What the Experts Say

You don’t need to do this by yourself. Paediatricians and certified sleep consultants have spent years studying how babies sleep, so you can trust the information they give you.

Dr. Harvey Karp, creator of the 5 S’s method, recommends mimicking the womb. Swaddling, shushing, swinging, sucking, and side/stomach positioning (only while supervised) can all help calm a fussy baby. 

Moreover, the Sleep Foundation highlights the importance of patterns. Babies thrive on consistency. A bath, followed by a feed, some cuddles, and a dark room can signal that it’s time to wind down.

On top of that, the NHS reminds us that babies should sleep on their backs in a cot or bassinet without any toys, pillows, or cushions. Safe ways to sleep lower the risk of SIDS and make it easier for everyone to sleep.

Gentle Ways to Support Better Sleep

Babies don’t sleep through the night because of a magic switch, but there are things you can try that might help.

Start a Simple Routine

Even a short bedtime rhythm—like bath, change, feed, cuddle—can help babies know it’s time to rest. Keep it calm and consistent.

Let Light Do the Work

During the day, open the curtains. Talk to your baby, go for walks, and keep things bright. At night, keep lights low and voices soft. Over time, this helps set their body clock.

Watch for Sleepy Signs

When they yawn, rub their eyes, or turn their head away, it means they are getting ready to sleep. Try putting your child down when they’re almost asleep but not quite.

Create a Calming Space

Some things that can help them sleep are a cool, quiet room with a firm mattress and soft white noise. The safest way is to swaddle your baby, which makes sure they don’t get hurt.

Don’t Rush In Every Time

If your baby stirs, wait a few seconds. They might settle back down without needing you. If they need comfort, respond—but not every noise means it’s time to pick them up.

Knowing When to Ask for Help

Sleep struggles are common. But sometimes, they signal something more.

Reach out to your doctor if:

• Your baby seems to be in pain during or after feeds

• They’re crying for hours each night with no relief

• They’re not gaining weight or feeding well

• You notice pauses in breathing during sleep

No question is too small. If you’re concerned, trust that gut feeling. A quick check-up can bring peace of mind.

Take a Breath — You’re Doing Great

The early days are tough. You’re tired, unsure, and pulled in a million directions. But the fact that you’re reading this, trying to understand your baby’s sleep, says everything about the kind of parent you are—caring, attentive, and doing your best.

It won’t always be like this. Babies eventually find their rhythm. Sleep becomes easier. And you’ll look back and realise how strong you were through all of it.

Until then, take it one night at a time. Rest when you can. When you need help, ask for it. Don’t forget that Mothercare Malaysia is here to help you with sound advice, safe baby items, and anything else you might need to make this season a little easier.

Check out our selection of basics for mums and babies at Mothercare Malaysia. We'll be with you the whole way.