On the plus side, there are no words to express how much joy and love you have when you bring a new baby into the world. Downside: there are also no manuals either. Leaving new moms with so many questions about every little thing. Even if you were already a mother, it can feel like learning all over again.
But what most tired moms want to know is: When will my baby will be on a regular sleeping schedule?
The first few weeks are adjusting to new life outside of the womb. Which means feedings every two hours or less, lots of diaper changes, and getting to know what your baby needs. The first few weeks run together because of your lack of sleep. Your baby needs time to get used to everything around them. Lights, sounds, feedings, baths, diapers, even car seats. Everything is new for them and you.
So, they say to sleep when your baby sleeps… and there is a reason why that saying has been around for so long, because it’s true! Your baby is probably not sleeping for more than two to four hours in the first couple of weeks to make sure they are getting enough to eat so those are going to be your only windows to sleep as well.
After four to six weeks, as baby has gotten used to the new world around them and a better eating schedule, they’ll be much more comfortable in their new environment to be able to sleep for at least four hours, maybe even five or six hours! After you’ve gotten into a good routine and you feel comfortable that they’re full and dry, put them in their bed making sure there are no big blankets, stuffed animals, or crib bumpers and enjoy the few hours you get to sleep.
Within another week or two they will start sleeping up to eight hours. At about two months, their own little bodies have figured out that it’s bed time and will most likely be able to sleep through the night. You will feel like a new person!
It only gets better and easier as time goes on. But don’t forget to enjoy them while they’re tiny, and don’t forget to ask for help when you need it!
