What Is The Second-Night Syndrome And How To Prepare For It

Usually, the first 24 hours are quite straightforward as your baby will spend the next few hours catching up on some much-needed rest. However, the second night with a newborn is a little different. Since your baby spent almost 9 months of cosy time in your uterus, on the second day of life in the real world, they will realise that things are not the same, and hence may protest – loudly.

Second-Night Syndrome and Dramas 

Referred to as the ‘second-night syndrome,’ this is the time when your baby is thought to recognise how much their life has changed. Their idyllic life in the comfy uterus has been replaced with one that is noisy, bright, and feels altogether different. Hence, the only thing that can ease this stress is being close to you.

Your baby will tend to seek reassurance and comfort, usually in the form of breastfeeding and a prolonged cuddle. If you face this, you’ll notice that every time you try to put your baby in the bassinet, they’ll wake up crying, which can get exhausting for you. 

Second-Night Syndrome Will Pass

The second night with your baby might be a difficult one, but it will get easier for you to deal with if you understand what your little one is experiencing. All the things your baby was used to including the cosy confines of your womb, your regular beating of heart along with the steady gurgling of your intestines suddenly have been removed. This results in your baby feeling unsure and unsettled.

Hence when you hold them close or offer another breastfeeding, your baby stops crying. This is because it provides them with something that is familiar. Snuggling into your chest is as close as the feeling of being back in the uterus for your baby.

Preparing For Second Night Syndrome

While this night can seem to be never-ending, with some things in mind, you can make it easier for yourself and your baby.

Do Not Panic

if your baby experiences some extra crying, it will pass. Your baby wants to spend extra time skin-to-skin with you and nurse more frequently if you’re breastfeeding. Continue offering your baby your breast milk and skin-to-skin contact. In case there’s less milk flow, it will signal to your breast to make more milk and provide comfort to your baby.

Get Support

While some families choose to stay a second night in their hospital following the birth of the baby to get the help of their wonderful nurses, some go back home 24 hours postpartum.

So for the families who find more comfort in their own homes, plan for in-home support from a loved one or trusted friend. Get help from cooking meals to supporting your feeding goals. 

Soothe Your Baby

Here are five easy steps to soothe your little one-

1. Swaddle – Swaddle your baby 
2. Side-lying – Hold your baby in a side-lying position
3. Shush – Turn on some white noise
4. Sway – Sway your baby gently from side to side
5. Suck – Offer your breast for them to suckle. You may also use a pacifier.

Take Rest 

Recovering from childbirth and taking care of your infant is a lot of work! So when your newborn is resting, do take the opportunity to rest too even if it is for just five minutes. Sleep and rest are not just crucial to your postpartum recovery but will also play a huge role in your mental health. 

The second-night syndrome is not a permanent phase and will pass. You and your baby are adjusting to the new changes so give it time. Remember to comfort your baby and take care of yourself too. 

Cover image credit – Canva