Help Me, Lisa! Is My 8-Month-Old Sick, Teething, or Experiencing Sleep Regression?
“How can I tell if my 8-month-old is dealing with sleep regression, teething pain, or perhaps even a cold? Lately, she’s been waking up every 40 minutes at night, and I’m confused about whether I should give her some Tylenol for comfort or let her cry it out to learn how to soothe herself back to sleep. I really need some guidance!”
It’s common for babies to start waking up at night as they become more active and start mastering new skills. This phase can be likened to those exciting moments in life when you find it hard to settle down at night due to all the excitement. One way to help your little one unwind is to extend her bedtime routine by an extra 15 minutes or so. This can create a more calming atmosphere, allowing her to relax after a busy day.
To set the right mood for bedtime, consider keeping the environment soothing—avoid TV (as it can disrupt sleep later on), play soft music, and dim the lights. A warm bath followed by quiet stories and gentle cuddles can work wonders (just leave out the tickle monster for this part!).
Remember, the more active your baby is during the day, the more unwinding she’ll need in the evening—not just to fall asleep, but also to stay asleep. This bedtime routine can help improve her sleep quality, regardless of whether she’s waking up due to teething pain or a stuffy nose.
Speaking of teething, this can indeed be painful and might be the reason for those nighttime disruptions. If it’s approved by her pediatrician, you might consider giving her a dose of Tylenol or Motrin to see if it helps. However, keep in mind that while teething may initially cause night waking, it can become a habit if not addressed properly. It’s understandable to want to comfort your little one, but striking a balance is key to ensuring she learns to self-soothe.
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Summary:
Determining whether your baby is teething or experiencing sleep regression can be tricky. By adjusting the bedtime routine to include a calming environment, you can help your little one unwind. It’s also important to consider teething pain as a potential cause of nighttime awakenings. Remember to explore various resources available for family planning and at-home insemination to support your journey.
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