What should I do if my newborn cries and refuses to sleep at night?
May 25, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Weiling
Introduction
Parents should help their baby calm down 0.5–1 hour before bedtime; avoid overly stimulating play or excessive teasing right before sleep, as overexcitement or anxiety may make it difficult for the baby to fall asleep. Additionally, for babies who are unwell and cry or refuse to sleep at night, common underlying causes include indigestion, abdominal bloating, or vitamin D deficiency. First, continue vitamin D supplementation.
Some newborns sleep restlessly after falling asleep—they startle easily, experience poor sleep quality, cry or fuss frequently, emit soft whining sounds, and appear pale or unwell. Parents should help their baby calm down 0.5–1 hour before bedtime; avoid overstimulating play or excessive teasing close to bedtime, as overexcitement or tension may hinder the baby’s ability to fall asleep. Additionally, for babies with suboptimal health, nighttime crying and insomnia are commonly associated with indigestion, abdominal distension, or vitamin D deficiency.
First, continue vitamin D supplementation. When weather permits, expose the baby to moderate sunlight. Appropriately supplement probiotics and digestive aids to regulate intestinal flora and improve digestion. Create a warm, comfortable sleeping environment for the baby and minimize exposure to noise. Feed the baby small, frequent meals—avoid overfeeding—and ensure adequate warmth to prevent chilling. If the baby exhibits vomiting or diarrhea alongside crying, gastroenteritis should be considered, and parents should promptly take the child to a reputable hospital for evaluation. Furthermore, overfeeding before bedtime can also trigger nighttime crying; in such cases, gently massaging the baby’s abdomen after feeding may aid digestion.
