Hi my baby is 8 weeks old she sleeps less in the morning and she is seeking for milk every 30 mins once after feed she oly slp for 15 to 20 mins then wakes up she always want to slp on my shoulder when we put her down she cries is it normal

Question

Accepted Answer

It's quite common for an 8-week-old baby to have irregular sleep patterns and frequent feeding needs. Babies at this age often go through growth spurts, which can cause them to be hungrier and seek milk more frequently, sometimes every 30 minutes to an hour. They also have a strong need for comfort and security, which is why your baby may prefer sleeping on your shoulder or being held, as it provides warmth, comfort, and a sense of security.

Here are some reasons and considerations for your baby's behavior:

1. **Growth Spurts:** Around 6-8 weeks, babies often experience a growth spurt, leading to more frequent feeding (cluster feeding). This is normal and usually lasts a few days.

2. **Comfort and Security:** Babies this young often prefer to be held or in close contact with a parent because it feels safe and comforting. They may cry when put down because they miss the warmth and the sound of your heartbeat, which they find soothing.

3. **Sleep Patterns:** Newborns have shorter sleep cycles, and it's common for them to wake up after 15-20 minutes. They might not yet be able to transition between sleep cycles smoothly, leading to frequent waking.

4. **Hunger or Feeding Cues:** Babies may also seek milk frequently for reasons other than hunger, such as thirst, comfort, or soothing themselves to sleep.

**What You Can Do:**
- **Frequent Feeding:** Continue feeding on demand, as frequent feeding is normal at this age and helps with both growth and development.
- **Swaddling:** Swaddling can provide a sense of security and help some babies feel more comfortable when lying down.
- **White Noise or Gentle Rocking:** These can mimic the womb environment and help your baby feel more secure and settled.
- **Skin-to-Skin Contact:** Providing plenty of skin-to-skin contact can help soothe your baby and may help her feel more comfortable when she's not being held.

It's normal for newborns to have such behaviors, and they usually settle down as the baby grows and their sleep patterns start to become more regular. If you're concerned about her feeding, sleep, or general behavior, or if you feel like something might be wrong, it's always a good idea to discuss it with your pediatrician for reassurance and guidance.