“Is Something Wrong With My Baby?”: What Newborn Sleep Actually Looks Like in the First 4 Weeks

It’s 2:13am. You’re holding a baby who won’t sleep anywhere but on your chest, your nipples feel like they’ve been through a war, and you’re Googling “how many times can a newborn wake up before it’s not normal???”

Pause. Breathe. You’re not doing anything wrong. Your baby isn’t broken. This is what normal looks like. And I’m here to walk you through it.

1. First Things First: Newborns Don’t Know Day From Night

Newborns come out with zero concept of circadian rhythm. Their internal clock is like, “What’s a bedtime?” That’s why you’ll often hear about babies being more awake at night—they’re just doing what their biology tells them to do.

What this means for you:

-It’s normal if your baby sleeps longer stretches during the day and is wide-eyed at 1am.

- Around 6-8 weeks, their body starts to shift toward more “daytime awake” and “nighttime sleepy.” It *will* come.

Support tip: During the day, open curtains, talk and engage during feeds. At night, keep things low-stimulation (dim lights, quiet, minimal interaction). You’re helping gently cue the difference.

2. Yes, Waking Every 1–3 Hours Is Normal (and Necessary)

You might be thinking, “There is no way it’s normal to wake up this often.” But it is. Newborn tummies are tiny—like, ping-pong-ball tiny—and they digest milk fast.

🍼 Here’s what’s normal:

-Waking every 2-3 hours to feed (sometimes more).

-Sleeping in short stretches—often 30 mins to 2 hours max.

- Being fussy or wakeful during the “witching hours” (usually 5pm–11pm).

3. Cluster Feeding Isn’t Just a Myth—It’s a Survival Strategy

You’re not imagining it. Some evenings your baby may feed *constantly*. This is called cluster feeding and it’s biologically normal.

Why it happens:

- Baby is trying to increase your milk supply.

- It helps them tank up for a longer stretch of sleep (if you’re lucky).

-It’s also comforting—think of it like baby’s version of Netflix and chill.

📌 Support tip: Set yourself up with snacks, water, Netflix, and a cozy spot. You’re not “spoiling” them. You’re meeting a need.

4. What the First 4 Weeks Might Look Like at Night

📌 Support tip: Nighttime feels longer because it’s quieter and darker—and you’re more exhausted. Take turns with your partner if possible. Use a baby carrier for contact naps during the day. Rest when you can.

5. You’re Not Failing. This Is Hard AND Normal.

If you’re spiraling thinking:

-”Why won’t my baby sleep longer?”

-“Is it normal to feed this often?”

- “Am I doing something wrong?”

…you’re not alone. And you’re not doing it wrong. This stage isn’t about “training” or “fixing” anything. It’s about survival, bonding, and slowly helping your baby adjust to life on the outside.

💛 Here’s your permission slip:

You don’t need a perfect schedule.

You don’t need to “fix” your baby.

You need support, rest, hydration, and snacks.

Final words:

You’re doing better than you think. If your baby is feeding, peeing, pooping, and growing—you’re on track. And if you need someone to walk alongside you through the haze? I’m here.

👉 Want more personalized support? Then book a newborn power hour with me we can discuss everything newborn and sleep to help you start with your best foot forward.