Do you have a four-month-old baby who is suddenly refusing to sleep through the night? Are you wondering if it’s a sleep regression or teething? In this blog post, we will discuss 4 month sleep regression or teething, as well as how to help your baby get back to sleeping through the night.
What Is A 4 Month Sleep Regression Or Teething?
A 4 month sleep regression is when a baby who has previously been sleeping through the night suddenly starts waking up multiple times during the night. This can last for several weeks and often leads to parents feeling exhausted and frustrated.
Read more: 3 Month-Old Sleep Regression
At the same time, many babies start to teethe around this age, which can also cause disruptions in their sleep. Teething can cause pain and discomfort, which can make it difficult for babies to sleep.
How Can You Tell The Difference Between 4 Month Sleep Regression Or Teething?
The first step in determining if your baby’s sleep disruption is due to a sleep regression or teething is to look at their behavior during the day. Are they cranky and irritable? Do they seem to be in pain or discomfort, particularly when chewing on things or putting their hands in their mouth? These can all be signs of teething. If you observe these behaviors during the day, it is likely that your baby’s sleep disruption is due to teething.
Read more: How To Stop Baby Waking At Night Out Of Habit
If you do not notice these behaviors during the day, then it is more likely that your baby is experiencing a 4 month sleep regression. In this case, it’s important to remember that it is a normal part of the baby’s development and will eventually pass.
What Are The Signs That Your Baby Is Going Through 4-Month Sleep Regression?
The 4-month mark is a profoundly significant time in your baby’s life – first smiles, cognitive leaps, and more. It can also bring a challenging and taxing phase for parents known as the 4-month sleep regression.
Since each baby’s needs are different, signs vary, but common ones include:
- having trouble settling down to sleep
- struggling to stay asleep
- frequent night wakings
- crankiness during the day
- fewer naps
Rest assured that it is only temporary – usually lasting 2-6 weeks – and there are things you can do to help your baby get better sleep during this time: keep bedtime routines calm and consistent; adjust daytime naps as needed; offer extra cuddles and comfort when they’re struggling; and most significantly, be patient with yourself.
In addition, with support from caregivers, family members, or friends if needed, you can get through it!
Read more: How To Keep A Baby Warm At Night
What Are The Signs That Your Baby Is Teething?
If you think your baby may be teething, look for the following signs:
excessive drooling
- swollen gums
- biting/chewing on objects
- irritability
- decreased appetite
If any of these signs are present, it is likely that your baby’s sleep disruption is due to teething.
How Can You Help Your Baby Get Back To Sleeping Through The Night?
No matter whether your baby’s sleep disruption is due to a 4 month sleep regression or teething, there are several things you can do to help them get back to sleeping through the night.
Set A Consistent Bedtime Routine
First, make sure you follow consistent healthy sleep habits for your baby with plenty of cuddling and rocking before going to bed. This sleep training will help to signal to your baby that it is time for sleep and will help them relax.
Create A Comfortable Sleep Environment
Second, create a comfortable sleep environment for your baby. Make sure the room is dark and quiet, with no distractions or outside noise. You may also want to invest in a white noise machine to help your baby fall asleep and stay asleep.
Adjust Day Time Naps As Needed
Third, adjust your baby’s daytime naps as needed. If they are having trouble staying asleep at night, make sure their daytime naps are not too long or too close to bedtime.
Read more: How To Keep Your Baby Safe While Sleeping
Offer Extra Cuddles & Comfort
For a good sleep cycle, offer your baby extra cuddles and comfort throughout the day. Proper sleep cycles will help to reduce stress and anxiety which can lead to better deep sleep at night.
Be Consistent
Finally, be consistent. Even if your baby is having trouble sleeping through the night, stick to the same bedtime routine and keep the sleep environment comfortable. Over time, this will help them get back on track and start sleeping more soundly.
Ultimately, it is important to remember that both teething and 4 month sleep regressions are normal parts of development. With a consistent bedtime routine and a comfortable sleep environment, you can help your baby get back to sleeping through the night.
Read more: What Time Should My Baby Wake Up In The Morning?
FAQs:
1) How long does 4 month sleep regression last?
Typically, the 4 month sleep regression lasts between 2-6 weeks.
2) How can I tell if my baby is teething or experiencing a 4 month sleep regression?
If you notice changes in your baby’s behavior during the day, like increased crankiness and difficulty settling down to sleep, it is likely due to a 4 month sleep regression. If you see additional signs of teething, such as excessive drooling or swollen gums, then your baby may be going through both simultaneously.
3) What should I do if my baby wakes up during the night?
If your baby wakes up in the middle of the night, try not to panic. Offer them comfort and reassurance while keeping the lights low and noise minimal. If they are still having trouble settling down, try rocking them or taking them for a walk in the stroller.
4) Is it normal for babies to experience sleep disruptions?
Yes, it is normal for babies to have occasional disruptions in their sleeping patterns. This can be caused by anything from teething to growth spurts and is usually resolved within a few weeks. If your baby’s nighttime wake-ups continue for more than two weeks, make sure to talk to your pediatrician.
The Ending Note:
The 4-month sleep regression can be a challenging and taxing phase for parents but it is important to remember that there are steps you can take to help both yourself and your baby adjust. Signs of teething can be hard to spot, but if you keep an eye out for fussiness, irritability, drooling, chewing, and teeth appearing, you’ll know your little one is in the midst of teething.
It’s important to be patient and supportive throughout both the sleep regression and teething phases as they won’t last forever! With patience and a healthy routine, you can comfortably navigate these tough times with ease.
