“Babies need time to develop mature sleep patterns. Gentle handling, a calm environment and safe sleep practices can help them gradually become more comfortable sleeping independently.”
- Dr Indrani Salunke, Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician, Wockhardt Hospitals Mumbai Central
Why Does the Baby Wake Up After Being Put Down?
There are various reasons that can lead to your baby waking up the moment you put them down. These may include the following:Baby Needs Warmth and Comfort
Your baby has been used to being carried in your arms that offer warmth, movement, smell, and touch. In the case of a crib, there is a complete contrast. The sudden transition from warm, moving arms to a cold and quiet crib will result in the baby stirring and waking. It happens especially in the initial few months of your baby's life.The Moro Reflex
This is a startle reflex that is a normal newborn response to sudden movement, noise, or a sensation of falling. A baby may suddenly spread their arms, jerk their body, and cry, especially when being placed down, briefly interrupting a peaceful sleep.Your Baby May Not Have Fallen Into Deep Sleep
Babies go through shorter sleep cycles compared to adults. The baby may look as if they are sound asleep but remains in a lighter state of sleep. When you place the baby early, the transition may awaken them. You can wait a bit longer until the baby is settled to make it easier.Some of the indicators of when the baby is sound asleep are as follows:
- Relaxation of arms and hands
- Smooth breathing
- Facial relaxation
- Reduced movement
- Calm and settled body
Could Hunger Be Waking Your Baby?
Another typical reason for frequent awakening is hunger. Babies' stomach capacity is small, and babies need to be fed frequently. An infant who sleeps during feeding and then gets put down might wake up again soon after if they need more milk. Be aware of feeding signs such as rooting, sucking motions, hand-to-mouth movements, or increasing restlessness.The Sleeping Environment Matters
There is a possibility that newborns can wake up when there is noise, light, and physical activity around. So, having a calm environment may assist in settling the baby.You may try to maintain the bedroom:
- At a peaceful and comfortably cool temperature
- Dimly lit during nighttime sleep
- Free from unwarranted stimulation
- Consistent with bedtime
Can Gas or Reflux Awaken the Baby When Put Down?
Gas or reflux can awaken a baby when put down because lying flat may make discomfort more noticeable. Trapped gas can cause pressure, bloating, and tummy pain, while reflux may allow stomach contents to move back into the oesophagus. This can lead to coughing, swallowing, fussiness, or crying. Babies may therefore settle comfortably in your arms but wake soon after being placed in the bed.How Can Parents Make the Transfer Easier?
Here's what you can do as parents to help your baby sleep better and transition smoothly from your arms to the bed:- When your baby shows signs of hunger, feed them
- Burp your baby after they are fed
- Make sure you check the diaper before sleeping
- Ensure that the room is clean and the light is dim
- Support your baby well when putting them down in the bed
- Move your baby carefully and slowly while laying them down
- Lay your baby on their back in the crib
- Remember to give your baby time to calm down after being laid down
When Should Parents Seek Medical Advice?
It is typically normal for babies to wake up from sleep every once in a while after being put down, but if a baby is having issues settling down and there are other signs of concern, you might need to consult with a paediatrician about the issue. The signs include the following:- Difficulty in breathing
- Frequent vomiting or tendency
- Poor feeding
- Poor weight gain
- Extreme sleepiness
- Crying that seems to be associated with pain
- Fever in a young infant
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FAQs on Reasons Why My Baby Wakes Up Right After Being Put Down
- Will my baby outgrow this habit of waking up when put down?
Yes, most babies gradually outgrow this habit as their sleep patterns mature, digestion improves, and they become better at transitioning between sleep cycles. - Can a wet diaper awaken the baby?
Yes, a wet diaper can awaken your baby when put down because moisture may cause discomfort, chill, or skin irritation, making it harder to remain asleep. - Does an uncomfortable sleeping position cause babies to wake?
Yes, an uncomfortable sleeping position can disturb your baby, cause fussiness, movement, or waking soon after settling.