When to Call Your Pediatrician

Contact your pediatrician if your newborn sleeps fewer than 10 hours in 24 hours, refuses feeds for more than 8 hours, shows signs of dehydration such as fewer than 6 wet diapers daily, has a fever above 100.4°F (38°C) at any age, or if breathing seems labored or irregular. Trust your instincts — early calls are always appropriate, and no concern is too small during the first months.

When should I start a newborn sleep routine?

A newborn sleep routine can begin gently in the first 2 to 3 weeks after birth. Keep expectations flexible early on, then add consistent wind-down steps around 6 to 8 weeks of age. A predictable rhythm helps your baby learn day from night without strict scheduling.

How long should a newborn sleep routine last?

A full evening wind-down routine typically takes 45 to 60 minutes from bath to crib. Newborns sleep 14 to 17 hours in 24 hours, so keep steps calm and brief. Adjust the length as your baby grows and shows tired cues earlier or later.

What if my newborn fights the routine?

Some newborns resist a new routine for 1 to 2 weeks while they adjust to cues. Try the drowsy-but-awake method or shorten steps to 10 minutes each. If fussiness grows or feeding drops, pause and comfort first, then restart gently the next night.

Should I wake my newborn for feeds?

Most newborns need feeding every 2 to 3 hours, so waking may be needed early on. Once weight is steady, your pediatrician may allow longer stretches at night. Always follow medical guidance for premature or low-birth-weight babies who need tighter intervals.

How do I fix newborn day-night confusion?

Newborns often mix day and night for the first 6 to 8 weeks of age. Expose your baby to bright daylight and play during the day, and keep nights dark and quiet. Our guide on newborn day-night confusion explains gentle resets that may help your baby sleep longer at night.

What are signs of a sleep regression?

A newborn sleep regression often appears around 4 months, but early shifts can show at 6 to 8 weeks. Watch for shorter naps, more night waking, and fussiness. Review our newborn sleep regression signs article, and talk to your pediatrician if sleep drops sharply for several days.