When a baby is born their world suddenly quietens and sometimes, a baby may find this hard to get used to.
By maintaining the noises around your baby, you may be able to make them feel more relaxed and make it easier for them to fall asleep.
Noisy surroundings are what they are used to.
Why does noise help get your baby to sleep?
For nine months your baby has been listening to your heart beating, your stomach gurgling and the sound of you moving around.
You do not have to replicate these sounds exactly. But there is no need to tiptoe or whisper around your newborn either.
Just as the noise inside the womb was loud and constant, it is perfectly fine to go about your normal business while your baby sleeps.
Feel free to turn on the air-conditioner, washing machine or dishwasher. Many parents successfully get their cleaning done while their baby is sleeping.
There is no need to turn your TV down or your radio off - your baby is likely to find the constant background noise soothing.
It’s true that when a baby is in the dreaming phase of their sleep cycle, known as Rapid Eye Movement (REM), a sudden loud noise such as a cough or sneeze might cause them to wake and require re-settling.
Think of that as the exception, not the rule, and try to embrace noise around your newborn baby.
Don't forget to rest too
And remember, many newborn babies are nocturnal. It is normal for them to sleep during the day and be awake at night during their first six weeks.
So, give yourself a break, ditch the chores and sleep when your baby sleeps.
Your rest is important too.
