Most newborn babies need to be woken for feeds in the first few weeks if they are sleeping for long periods. Frequent feeding helps support healthy growth, hydration and weight gain, particularly in the early days after birth.
As a general guide, newborns should feed at least every 3 to 4 hours during the day and often more frequently than this. Once your baby is gaining weight well and your healthcare professional is happy with their progress, they may be able to sleep for longer stretches between feeds.
Every baby is different, so if you are unsure, always seek advice from your midwife, public health nurse, GP or lactation consultant.
Do You Need to Wake a Newborn to Feed?
In the first few weeks, many newborns are naturally very sleepy. While sleep is important for development, regular feeding is equally important.
You may need to wake your newborn for a feed if:
✔ They are less than two weeks old
✔ They have not yet regained their birth weight
✔ More than 3 to 4 hours have passed since their last daytime feed
✔ Your healthcare professional has advised regular feeding
✔ They were born prematurely or have additional feeding needs
Once your baby is feeding well, gaining weight consistently and producing plenty of wet and dirty nappies, your healthcare professional may advise that you can allow longer stretches of sleep.
What Does the HSE and NHS Recommend?
Both the HSE and NHS recommend feeding newborn babies responsively, which means watching for feeding cues rather than following a strict schedule.
Early hunger cues include:
➤ Moving their head from side to side
➤ Opening and closing their mouth
➤ Bringing their hands to their mouth
➤ Rooting or searching for the breast or bottle
➤ Becoming more alert and active
Crying is usually a late hunger cue, so it is often easier to feed your baby when they first start showing signs that they are ready to eat.
If your newborn is very sleepy and not waking for feeds, speak to your healthcare professional for advice.
How Do You Wake a Sleepy Newborn for a Feed?
Some babies need a little encouragement to wake up enough for feeding.
Try these gentle techniques:
Change Their Nappy
A nappy change can help rouse your baby without causing distress.
Try Skin-to-Skin Contact
Holding your baby against your chest can help them become more alert while also providing comfort and reassurance.
Unwrap Layers
Removing a blanket or opening their sleeping bag briefly can help your baby wake naturally.
Gently Stroke Their Cheeks
Touching your baby's cheek, hands or feet can encourage them to stir.
Talk or Sing Softly
The sound of your voice may help your baby wake gradually.
The aim is simply to wake your baby enough to feed comfortably rather than fully waking them.
Is It Normal for a One-Day-Old Baby to Sleep Most of the Time?
Yes. It is completely normal for newborn babies to sleep for much of the day and night during their first few days of life.
Many newborns sleep between 14 and 17 hours in every 24-hour period. However, they should still wake regularly for feeds.
If your baby is difficult to wake, refuses feeds repeatedly, has fewer wet nappies than expected or seems unusually sleepy, contact your healthcare professional promptly.
Newborn Sleep and Safe Sleepwear
A comfortable sleep environment can help your baby settle between feeds. A newborn baby sleeping bag can help keep your baby at a comfortable temperature without the need for loose blankets.
Slumbersac newborn sleeping bags are designed for babies from 56cm and feature:
✔ Securely fitted neck and arm openings
✔ Easy-access zips for simpler night-time nappy changes
✔ Soft, breathable fabrics
✔ Sizes designed specifically for newborn babies
✔ Available in a range of TOG ratings for different room temperatures
Choosing the correct TOG rating and dressing your baby appropriately for the room temperature can help create a safe and comfortable sleep environment.
It can be difficult to know whether to wake a sleeping newborn for a feed. In the early weeks, regular feeding is important for growth and development, and some babies will need gentle encouragement to wake.
Trust your instincts, keep an eye on your baby's feeding and nappy output, and seek professional advice if you have any concerns. As your baby grows and gains weight, feeding patterns will gradually become more predictable and longer stretches of sleep will often follow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Wake My Newborn at Night to Feed?
Many newborns need feeding throughout the night and may need to be woken if they sleep for long periods, especially during the first few weeks. Speak to your healthcare professional about your baby's individual feeding needs.
How Long Can a Newborn Sleep Without Feeding?
Most newborns should not go longer than 3 to 4 hours without feeding during the day. Night-time guidance may vary depending on your baby's age, weight gain and overall health.
What If My Newborn Falls Asleep During a Feed?
This is very common. Try gently rubbing their feet, changing their nappy or burping them before offering the breast or bottle again.
When Can I Stop Waking My Baby for Feeds?
Many babies no longer need waking once they are feeding well and gaining weight appropriately, but always follow the advice of your healthcare professional.
