Understanding why do newborns cry in their sleep is key to responding appropriately. Here are the most common reasons your newborn cries in sleep:
1. Active Sleep (REM Sleep)
Do newborns cry in active sleep? Yes! During REM sleep, your baby’s brain is very active. They may:
- Make sucking motions
- Twitch their arms and legs
- Whimper, grunt, or even cry out
This stage is critical for brain development and often the source of those mysterious nighttime noises.
2. Sleep Cycle Transitions
Newborns have short sleep cycles (about 50 minutes). As they move from deep sleep to light sleep, brief awakenings or cries are common. If your newborn randomly cries in sleep but then settles quickly, this is likely the reason.
3. Hunger
Babies have tiny stomachs and need to eat frequently. Sometimes a fussy or crying episode during sleep is simply a sign it’s time for another feed. This is especially common during growth spurts.
4. Discomfort (Gas, Diaper, Temperature)
- Gas: Newborns can experience trapped gas, especially after feeding. This discomfort can cause them to squirm and cry out in sleep.
- Dirty Diaper: Sensitive skin may make a wet or soiled diaper uncomfortable enough to prompt a cry.
- Too Hot or Too Cold: Overbundling or a chilly room can cause restlessness.
5. Startle (Moro) Reflex
Many newborns are startled awake by their own reflexes. This can cause them to suddenly cry, flail their arms, and then drift back to sleep. Swaddling can help minimize this response.
6. Overstimulation
A busy day or lots of new sights and sounds can leave a baby overstimulated, leading to restless sleep and crying.
7. Dreams (or Developing Sleep Patterns)
While we don’t know if babies truly dream, their brains are actively processing new experiences. This could contribute to facial expressions, noises, and even tears during sleep.
Different Patterns of Crying in Sleep
Every baby is unique, but here are some common patterns parents notice when a newborn cries in sleep:
Short Whimpers or Grunts
- Usually occur in active sleep
- Brief and often resolve on their own
- Baby remains asleep or settles quickly
Fussing Every Few Minutes
- May indicate transitions between sleep cycles
- Often related to mild discomfort (gas, temperature)
- If baby quickly calms, this is considered normal
Intense or Prolonged Crying
- May signal hunger, discomfort, or need for a diaper change
- If baby doesn’t settle with basic comfort measures, monitor for other symptoms
Crying Out Suddenly
- Often linked to the startle reflex
- Baby may flail arms, then relax
- Swaddling can help reduce these episodes
Constant or Repeated Crying
- If your newborn keeps crying in sleep and cannot be soothed, look for signs of illness or persistent discomfort
- Occasionally, this is a sign to seek medical advice
When to Worry or Seek Medical Advice
While most episodes of newborn crying in sleep are harmless, there are times when you should consult your pediatrician:
- Persistent High-Pitched Crying: Lasts for an extended period and is difficult to soothe.
- Signs of Illness: Fever, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, or unusual lethargy.
- Breathing Issues: Rapid, labored, or noisy breathing, or grunting with each breath.
- Poor Feeding or Lack of Weight Gain: Crying interferes with eating, or baby isn’t gaining weight.
- Behavior Changes: Sudden changes in sleeping, feeding, or alertness.
- You Feel Something Is Wrong: Trust your instincts—parents know their babies best.
Tip: When in doubt, always call your pediatrician. It’s better to get reassurance than to worry alone.
Tips to Soothe a Newborn Crying in Sleep
Want to help your baby sleep more soundly? Try these gentle, effective strategies:
1. Swaddling
A snug swaddle can help prevent the startle reflex and make your baby feel secure—like being back in the womb.
2. White Noise
A steady background sound can mask household noises and soothe your baby into deeper sleep.
3. Check for Basic Comfort
- Change diapers regularly
- Ensure your baby isn’t too hot or too cold
- Dress in light, breathable layers
4. Offer a Feeding
If your baby hasn’t eaten in a while, try a feeding. Hunger is a common cause for crying in sleep newborn.
5. Gentle Rocking or Patting
Some babies are calmed by motion. Try gentle rocking, patting, or holding your baby close.
6. Tummy Massage or Burping
If you suspect gas, gently massage your baby’s tummy or try burping them.
7. Create a Calm Sleep Environment
- Dim the lights
- Lower noise levels in the house
- Use blackout curtains for daytime naps
8. Use a Baby Monitor
A monitor lets you check on your baby without disturbing their sleep, helping you decide when they need intervention.
👉 Readers can also try our Newborn Crying Weekly Analyzer and the Smart Baby Sleep Tracker
FAQs About Newborn Crying in Sleep
Do newborns cry in their sleep because of nightmares?
No evidence suggests that newborns have nightmares. Crying during sleep is most commonly related to active sleep cycles, hunger, or physical discomfort.
Is it normal for newborns to cry in their sleep?
Yes, it is normal for newborns to cry, grunt, or make noises during sleep—especially in the first few months.
Why does my newborn cry in her sleep but calms down quickly?
Brief crying spells that resolve on their own are usually due to transitions in sleep cycles or active sleep—and are typically nothing to worry about.
What should I do if my newborn randomly cries in sleep?
Observe first. If your baby settles quickly and shows no signs of distress, it’s likely normal. If not, check for basic needs like hunger or discomfort.
Do newborns cry in active sleep?
Yes, most newborns cry or make noises during active (REM) sleep. This is a normal part of their brain and body development.
When should I worry about newborn crying in sleep?
Seek medical advice for persistent, high-pitched, or inconsolable crying, or if you notice symptoms like fever, breathing problems, or significant behavior change.
Conclusion: Reassurance for Parents
It’s completely normal to feel anxious when your newborn cries in sleep. In most cases, these nighttime noises and cries are part of healthy development, reflecting your baby’s active sleep cycles, hunger, and adjustment to the world.Most crying episodes are short-lived and resolve with gentle support—like swaddling, white noise, and regular feeding. By understanding your baby’s sleep patterns and knowing when to seek help, you’ll feel more confident as a parent.
Remember: If you’re ever worried about your baby’s crying, trust your instincts and consult your pediatrician. And don’t hesitate to use tools like baby monitors, swaddles, and white noise machines to make those early months smoother for both you and your little one.Wishing you restful nights and a happy, healthy baby!