Why Does My Baby Wake Up So Often at Night?

Is it normal for my baby to wake up so much at night?

Nighttime awakenings are a natural part of sleep development in babies. Unlike adults, children's sleep cycles are shorter (around 50-60 minutes) and the transition between phases is usually lighter, which favors frequent awakenings.

Also, sleep is not fully mature at birth. According to the Spanish Association of Pediatrics, sleep is progressively consolidated during the first two years of life.

Common Factors Influencing Night Awakenings

Here are some normal factors that cause a baby to wake up frequently:

Need for food: especially in the first 6 months, awakenings are linked to the need to eat. The WHO recommends breastfeeding on demand, even at night.

Separation anxiety: Around 6-9 months, many babies begin to develop a strong attachment to their caregivers and wake up seeking comfort.

Developmental changes: Milestones such as crawling, sitting, or walking can temporarily disrupt sleep.

Teething: Pain or discomfort can cause the baby to wake up more.

Environmental conditions: temperature, noise, light or discomfort can interfere.

Nighttime breastfeeding is normal and healthy in young babies.

When do babies start sleeping better?

Every baby is unique, but according to studies by the Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, about 70-80% of babies aged 6 to 12 months can sleep 6 hours at a time at night although they may still need one or two night feedings. However, that doesn't mean everyone does it or that it's a problem if it doesn't happen.

Should I be worried if he wakes up a lot?

In general, no. Waking up at night is not a sign that something is wrong if the baby is healthy, growing properly, and has moments of restful sleep during the day and night. However, it may be advisable to consult a pediatrician if:

• The baby seems to have frequent pain or discomfort.
• There are respiratory symptoms, snoring, or pauses in breathing.
• The awakenings are excessively frequent (every 20-30 minutes constantly).
• There is no progress in sleep pattern past the first year.

Tips for coping with nighttime awakenings

Although we can't completely eliminate awakenings (nor should we), there are ways to accompany them more calmly and help the baby develop healthy habits:

Respond calmly: going to the baby calmly reduces their anxiety and promotes safe sleep.

Quiet bedtime routines: bath, songs, stories, or soft lights can prepare the baby.

Sleep close to the baby (safe co-sleeping or cot in the same room): facilitates night care and reduces stress.

Take care of the sleeping environment: adequate temperature, darkness and no loud noises.