The first three months of your baby’s life—often called the fourth trimester—can be a rollercoaster of emotions, cuddles, and sleepless nights. Unlike what many expect, newborn sleep doesn’t follow predictable patterns, and that’s completely normal. So, what can you expect, and how can you support your baby’s sleep during this time?
What Is the Fourth Trimester?
The fourth trimester is the period from birth to 12 weeks when your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb. After spending nine months in a warm, snug, and constantly moving environment, the outside world can feel overwhelming. Their sleep, feeding, and comfort needs are all shaped by this huge transition.
Why Is Newborn Sleep So Unpredictable?
Newborns have tiny stomachs, so they wake frequently for feeds—often every 2-3 hours, day and night. Unlike older babies, their sleep cycles are short (around 45 minutes), and they spend a lot of time in active (light) sleep, making them more prone to waking.
How to Support Sleep in the Fourth Trimester
⭐ Embrace Contact & Motion – Your baby loves being close to you because it mimics the womb. Contact naps, babywearing, and rocking can help them feel safe and settled.
⭐ Use White Noise – A constant, womb-like sound can soothe your baby and prevent them from startling awake.
⭐ Follow Their Sleepy Cues – Watch for signs of tiredness like fussing, staring, or rubbing eyes and try settling them before they become overtired.
⭐ Create a Calming Bedtime Routine – A warm bath, dim lights, and a cuddle before bed can signal that nighttime is for longer stretches of sleep.
⭐ Don’t Stress About ‘Bad Habits’ – It’s okay if your baby needs to be held, rocked, or fed to sleep right now. Sleep independence comes later!
The Takeaway
The fourth trimester is all about comfort, closeness, and meeting your baby’s needs. Their sleep will be unpredictable, but by offering a secure and soothing environment, you’re laying the foundations for healthy sleep in the months to come.
Need personalised support during the newborn stage? Get in touch—I’d love to help!
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