What is 7 Month Sleep Regression in Babies?

7 month sleep regression is a term used to describe the phenomenon where babies who have been sleeping well suddenly wake up more often and for longer periods. This change in sleep patterns can happen as early as six months or as late as twelve months old and is always followed by an improvement of the baby’s sleep habits.

The article will go over what causes it, how long it lasts, some potential solutions, and if there are any warning signs that your child might be experiencing this regression.

Let’s get started!

What Is the Cause of Sleep Regression?

This sudden change in sleeping patterns can be caused by many factors. Babies are known to experience one or more regressions during their first two years. 

Sleep deprivation due to long periods without sleep, teething pain, and stress are common causes. In addition, it often takes place when a baby is going through a developmental leap.

Let’s see what a developmental leap is and how it causes sleep regression.

What Is a Developmental Leap, and How Does It Cause Sleep Regression?

A developmental leap refers to a period in which your baby’s mental and physical abilities go through rapid growth. 

Physical changes include the ability of babies to roll over, sit or crawl on their own. The most common cause behind sleep regression during this time is teething pain which may be intense enough for your child not to get any uninterrupted night-time sleep.

Babies undergo four main leaps during their first two years – the nine-month, 18-month, and 24-month Leap. The seven-month leap is considered to be a minor one. However, it can still result in disturbed sleep patterns for your baby.

How Long Does 7-month Sleep Regression Last in Babies?

There is no definite answer as to how long sleep regression will last for a baby. It can vary depending on the individual child and the specific circumstances that are causing the regression. However, there are some general guidelines that can give parents an idea of what to expect.

Most cases of sleep regression last for around 2 or 3 weeks. However, there are some babies who experience regressions that last longer. If the baby is experiencing major developmental changes, it may also take more time to get back on track with their sleep schedule.

However, it is important for parents not to put too much pressure on themselves during this time because it can be frustrating.

Sleep Regression: Do I Need to Worry?

No one ever said that raising a baby was easy, and for first-time parents, sleep deprivation is just another thing to add to the long list of things they have to worry about.

Don’t worry – sleep regression is completely normal! 

In fact, it’s actually a sign that your baby is growing and developing. Around this time, babies are starting to develop their own sense of independence and begin to resist sleep out of fear of being away from you. As a result, they may start to fight, sleepless, and take longer to fall asleep.

How Can I Help My Baby Through the Seven-Month Sleep Regression?

There are a few things you can do to help your baby through seven-month sleep regression:

Offer Frequent Feedings

Don’t be scared to give your baby frequent feedings. Many babies are going through a growth spurt at this time and need more food to help them stay energized. In this way,  frequent feedings will also help your baby to sleep longer at night.

Moreover, make sure your baby gets plenty of daytime naps. This will help them to be more tired and ready for bed at night.

Note: You can check out this guide on the best Pop-up toys to keep them activated during the day.

Keep Things Dark and Quiet

Keep the house dark and quiet during naps, including while you’re putting your baby down for bedtime. At seven months old, babies are still very sensitive to their surroundings. 

They’ll be more likely to fall asleep if they know it’s time for bed when everything around them is calm and dark. Moreover, make sure your baby gets plenty of exercise during the day. Toys that encourage movements, such as a play mat or jumper, can be helpful.

Bedtime Routine

Establish a bedtime routine and stick to it as closely as possible. A bedtime routine will help your baby know that it’s time for sleep and will help them to relax before bed.

Try to keep your baby’s bedtime routine as consistent as possible. This will help your baby know what to expect and will make it easier for them to fall asleep.

White Noise Machine Comes in Handy

Consider using a white noise machine or app to create a calming environment for your baby. White noise can be very soothing and can help block out other noises that might keep your baby awake.

Avoid Tiring Your Child

Try not to let your baby become too overtired. This can make it harder for them to fall and stay asleep. In other words. By overtired we mean,  your baby has had too much stimulation and not enough downtime.

Offer Comfort

Offer comfort and reassurance to your baby throughout the night. This can help them feel more secure and reassured that everything is okay. The following are 5 ways you can offer more comfort to your baby during 7-month sleep regression:

• Use a pacifier. This can help your baby feel more relaxed and calm while they’re sleeping,

• Rock or cuddle with your baby. Babies like this extra attention when they’re having trouble falling asleep,

• Sing to your baby. Soft music in the background can be very soothing for babies who are struggling to fall asleep,

• Place your baby in a crib when he’s drowsy but still awake. This will help him learn how to soothe himself to sleep, and

• Give your baby a transitional object, such as a soft toy or blanket. This can also help them feel more secure and comfortable while they’re trying to fall asleep.

Take a Break

 If all else fails, there’s no shame in asking for help from family or friends. It can be helpful to have a break from your baby or to have some time for yourself. You can also ask a sitter, relative, or friend if they’d be willing to come over and help you put your baby down at night.

This will ensure that whoever is helping you puts your baby in his crib when he’s drowsy but still awake so that he can learn to soothe himself to sleep.

Hopefully, these tips will help your baby through the seven-month sleep regression, and you can get back to a good night’s sleep!