The First Month of Newborn Sleep: What’s Normal

Welcoming a newborn into your home is a magical experience—but it can also be exhausting, especially when it comes to sleep. Many new parents worry that their baby isn’t sleeping “enough” or that they’ll never get rest again. The truth is, newborn sleep is very different from adult sleep, and understanding what’s normal in the first month can help you feel more confident and prepared.

How Much Do Newborns Sleep?

In the first month, most newborns sleep 14–18 hours a day, but this sleep is broken into short periods of 2–4 hours at a time, around the clock. This is completely normal! Their tiny stomachs mean they need frequent feedings, even overnight.

• Sleep occurs in short bursts, not long stretches.

• There is no set “schedule” yet, expect randomness.

• Newborns spend roughly 50% of their sleep in REM (dream) sleep, which is lighter and easier to wake from.

  
  

Typical Sleep Patterns in the First Month

During this stage, your baby’s sleep may look like this:

• Day/Night Confusion: Many newborns sleep more during the day and wake often at night.

• Frequent Wakings: Babies wake to feed every 2–4 hours.

• Short Naps: Naps may only last 30–90 minutes.

• Startle Reflex: Your baby may twitch or startle during sleep (a normal reflex).

  
  

Remember: Every baby is unique. Some sleep a bit more, some a bit less, and both can be completely healthy.

Tips to Support Healthy Newborn Sleep

Even though newborns have irregular sleep, there are things you can do to make sleep safer and more predictable:

1. Follow Safe Sleep Guidelines: Always place your baby on their back to sleep, in a firm crib or bassinet, with no loose blankets or toys

2. Watch for Sleep Cues: Look for yawns, blank stares, red eyebrows, or eye rubbing. These cues help you put your baby down before they become overtired, which is key during the newborn days.

3. Create a Calm Environment: Soft lighting, gentle sounds, and swaddling can help your baby feel secure.

4. Cluster Feeding in the Evening: Feeding more frequently in the late afternoon/early evening can help reduce frequent night wakings later. Many babies do this naturally and it is completely normal! (If you are breastfeeding, it does NOT mean that you aren't producing enough milk).

5. Take Care of Yourself: Sleep when you can, even if that means napping a bit throughout the day, and accept help when it’s offered. Your rest matters too!

   
   

When to Check In With Your Pediatrician

Most newborn sleep patterns are normal, but it’s important to consult your pediatrician if:

• Your baby rarely sleeps or is extremely hard to wake.

• They have trouble feeding or aren’t gaining weight.

• You notice unusual breathing patterns or long periods of apnea.
  

Bottom Line

The first month of newborn sleep is often unpredictable, but this is completely normal. By understanding typical patterns, following safe sleep practices, and supporting your baby’s cues, you can navigate these early weeks with more confidence.

Remember: there is no “perfect sleep” at this stage, and your baby’s irregular sleep is a sign that they’re growing, developing, and thriving.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by newborn sleep or need guidance on creating routines that work for your family, I offer personalized newborn sleep support and postpartum care for Denver families. Book a call here to get started.