Those early days (and nights) with a newborn can feel like a beautiful blur of cuddles, feedings, and… very little sleep.

As a postpartum doula, I often hear:

“Is this normal?”

“Should my baby be sleeping more?”

“Are we doing something wrong?”

Take a deep breath, mama. You’re not alone — and what you’re experiencing is likely completely normal.

💤 What Does Newborn Sleep Actually Look Like?

In the first 0–12 weeks, newborns typically:

Sleep 14–17 hours per day, but in short stretches Wake every 2–3 hours for feedings (day and night) Have no concept of day or night Need help falling and staying asleep

This isn’t broken sleep — it’s biological. Your baby’s brain is still maturing, and so are their sleep cycles.

⏰ Why It Feels So Hard

Your baby might:

Fall asleep in your arms, but wake up when laid down Seem extra restless during the early morning hours Catnap instead of deep nap Only sleep while being held

All of this is common during the “fourth trimester,” when your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb. They crave closeness, comfort, and rhythm.

🤱🏽 How to Gently Support Newborn Sleep

While formal sleep training isn’t recommended for newborns, you can gently encourage healthy sleep patterns by:

Establishing a calm bedtime routine (dim lights, feeding, rocking) Giving your baby daylight exposure to help set a circadian rhythm Using white noise to mimic the womb environment Offering safe swaddling if baby isn’t rolling yet Providing responsive care — yes, you can hold and soothe your baby as much as they need.

It’s also ok to put your baby down. They are learning to sleep independently from you. You gain more rest/sleep as well.

❓ Curious About Sleep Training?

Sleep training is a personal decision, and it’s not something we typically recommend before 3–6 months. Depending on the baby and family’s needs.

But when you’re ready — and if your baby is developmentally ready — sleep training can be done with love, gentleness, and a plan that feels right for your family.

💬 Have questions about when and how to start?

I’m here to walk you through it, without pressure or judgment.

🌙 You Deserve Sleep, Too

At Compassionate Care Doula Services, I believe that supporting your baby means supporting you, too.

Let’s work together so you feel confident, rested, and cared for — day and night.

📩 Ready to ask about sleep training or newborn sleep tips?

Let’s talk. Visit CompassionateCareDoula.com or send me a message on Instagram or Facebook.

You’re doing better than you think. 💗