My child is 4 months old and doesn't sleep at night, is this normal?

The 4-Month Sleep Regression — You're Not Doing Anything Wrong 💙

In short: Yes, this is what's known as the 4-month sleep regression. It's one of the toughest phases, but it's temporary — it usually lasts 2 to 6 weeks.

Why This Happens

Around the 4-month mark, your baby's brain goes through a major shift in how sleep works:

• Sleep cycles mature — they become similar to adult sleep, alternating between light and deep sleep
• Between cycles (every 45-90 minutes), your baby wakes briefly — and needs your help to fall back asleep
• This is a sign of healthy brain development, not a problem
• Your baby hasn't "forgotten" how to sleep — they're learning a new way to sleep

What Might Help

• White noise — mimics the womb environment and helps with transitions between sleep cycles
• Darkening the room — melatonin production needs darkness
• A consistent bedtime routine — bath, feeding, a quiet song, in the same order every night
• Earlier bedtime — an overtired baby sleeps worse, not better
• Cuddles and closeness — your baby needs you, and that's not "spoiling" them

When to Talk to Your Pediatrician

• If your baby seems sick (not just fussy)
• If they refuse feeding during the day
• If things don't improve after 8 weeks

What Other Moms Say

"Three weeks were really tough. I cried with my baby at 3 a.m. But it passed. And then came the first real smile that made everything worth it."

You're doing an amazing job, even when it doesn't feel like it. 💛

This information is not a substitute for consulting your doctor.