Q: Why is my 9-month-old baby suddenly waking up 3 to 5 times a night?
Updated: Sep 7
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 9-month-old baby (approx. 282 days old, 10.4 kg) has been waking up constantly at night. For over a month now, my baby wakes up at least 3 times, and up to 5 times a night, crying—sometimes weakly, sometimes very loudly. My baby used to sleep through the night perfectly since about 50 days of age. What could be the possible causes for this sudden change? Are there any specific medical tests we should get done?
Answer:
It must be very exhausting for you to deal with these sleep disruptions for over a month. It is especially concerning and frustrating when a baby who used to sleep soundly through the night suddenly starts waking up frequently.
Here are the main possible causes for night wakings in a 9-month-old baby:
Developmental Causes:
8 to 10-Month Sleep Regression: Your baby's brain is highly active due to developing new motor skills like crawling, pulling up, and standing.
Separation Anxiety: This peaks around this age, and the baby may wake up just to check if you are still there.
Increased Dream Activity: An increase in REM (rapid eye movement) sleep can lead to lighter sleep that is easily disrupted.
Physical Causes:
Teething: This is the age when teeth might be coming in. Check your baby's gums for swelling or redness.
Otitis Media (Ear Infection): Ear pain often worsens when a baby lies down flat, causing frequent night crying.
Growing Pains: Notice if gently massaging their legs helps soothe them back to sleep.
Feeding or Digestion Issues: Changes in solid food intake or milk consumption can lead to middle-of-the-night hunger or digestive discomfort.
Environmental Causes:
Inconsistent room temperature or humidity.
Recent shifts in daytime nap schedules.
New environmental factors like outside noises or lights.
Things You Can Observe at Home:
Is your baby pulling, rubbing, or touching their ears?
Are their gums swollen, or is there an increase in drooling?
Do they wake up at the exact same times every night, or in a specific posture?
Are they unusually fussy or acting differently during the day?
While many of these sleep disruptions are simply part of normal developmental phases, the fact that this has been going on for over a month warrants medical attention. It is highly recommended to visit your pediatrician to rule out physical issues like an ear infection or teething complications. Please seek an in-person evaluation promptly, especially if you notice the baby pulling at their ears, experiencing a fever, having a loss of appetite, or showing extreme fussiness during the day.
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
