Here is when not to burp your baby
Parenthood comes with its fair share of challenges, and one that many parents encounter is deciphering the sounds and signals their baby gives, especially those late-night cries and grunts that disrupt your sleep. Let’s dive into a very common scenario that might have you wondering whether it’s time to burp your baby or perhaps let them be.
The Familiar Night-Time Struggle
Picture this: you’ve just put your newborn down to sleep. It’s around 11 PM, and you finally drift into a much-needed slumber. Fast forward to 3 AM, and you’re abruptly woken by the unmistakable sound of your baby stirring. You get up to feed them, expecting a routine process. However, once they’re back in their crib, they start grunting, kicking, and looking uncomfortable, as if they need to burp. You’re exhausted, gently holding and patting your baby, trying desperately to coax that elusive burp, but nothing seems to work.
Understanding Sleep Transitions in Newborns
This scenario might seem frustratingly familiar, but there’s an explanation. Newborns often spend up to 75% of their time transitioning into active sleep, which can look like grunting, kicking, and even mimicking the signs of needing to burp. This phase can be deceptive, leading parents to believe their baby is uncomfortable, when in fact, they might just be adjusting their sleep cycle.
As morning approaches, even older babies around three to four months spend increasing time in lighter sleep, making it easier for them to wake up—and for us parents to hear every sound they make.
Managing Active Sleep
When faced with a baby who won’t settle, you might wonder if they truly need to burp. More often than not, they don’t. Instead, it could be a case of active sleep, which they’ll outgrow around the 12-week mark. Here are some strategies to help manage these episodes:
Use a Pacifier: If your baby accepts one, a pacifier can provide comfort without needing to resort to feeding or burping.
Offer Another Feed: If the pacifier doesn’t work, another feed, followed by swaddling, might help soothe your baby back to sleep.
Observe: Pay close attention to your baby’s cues. If they are merely grunting or making intermittent noises with eyes closed, it’s likely they are transitioning through active sleep. If their eyes are wide open and they are escalating to a full-blown cry, then it might be time to intervene with a feed or some comforting.
Knowing When to Intervene
A key point to remember is to monitor your baby’s cries. If it’s a full outcry, they may genuinely need something, whether it’s food or comfort. However, intermittent calling out, kicking, or grimacing might just mean they’re in active sleep.
Navigating the nuances of your baby’s sleep can be challenging. Remember, you’re not alone, and with time, both you and your baby will become more attuned to these patterns. If in doubt, or if you’re struggling with any aspect of your baby’s sleep routine, don’t hesitate to seek advice or support from professionals.
This is undoubtedly a tricky phase, but it passes as your baby grows. Until then, arming yourself with knowledge and strategies will help you manage these moments with greater ease and confidence. If you have any questions or need further support, feel free to reach out or share your experiences in the comments below.
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Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP
