Sleep Problems in Newborns

Sleep Problems in Newborns: Overtiredness and Excessive Stimulation

The situation where a tired baby, instead of falling asleep, starts crying, arching, and protesting any attempt to be laid down, is familiar to many parents. It seems paradoxical: why does a child who clearly wants to sleep fight sleep so actively? In most cases the cause lies in the physiology of the newborn’s immature nervous system. The two main “enemies” of easy sleep at this age are overtiredness and excessive stimulation.

"Overtired": Why Overtiredness Disrupts Sleep

If a newborn does not fall asleep on time, when its nervous system is ready, the body begins to treat this as a stressful situation. In response to stress, the adrenal glands release the hormone cortisol into the blood. Cortisol has a stimulating effect; it gives the baby a “second wind” to cope with fatigue. As a result, the nervous system becomes over‑stimulated, and the baby finds it extremely difficult to relax and fall asleep, even if it is very tired. This is the state of “overtiredness,” which often leads to prolonged crying before sleep.

The key to avoiding overtiredness is tracking “sleep windows,” i.e., the maximum amount of time a newborn can comfortably stay awake. In the first weeks of life this is only 45–60 minutes.

Excessive Stimulation: When the World Is Too Loud

The newborn’s nervous system is not yet able to effectively “filter” external stimuli. Too bright light, loud noises, a large number of visitors, active play before bedtime — all can overload it. An over‑stimulated brain simply cannot “shut down” and transition into a calm state. That’s why peace, quiet, and creating conditions that resemble the “fourth trimester” are so important for a newborn.

Other Causes of Sleep Difficulties

Physical discomfort that can prevent the baby from relaxing should not be overlooked. This can be hunger, gas pain, colic, or a wet diaper. Checking these basic needs is the first step for any sleep problems.