Why Is My Baby Not Sleeping Even After They're Well Fed?

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“If their tummy is full, they should sleep through,” is one of the most common things parents tell themselves when their baby wakes in the night. And while it feels logical, the truth is a little more complex: a full tummy does not guarantee a full night’s sleep.

Night waking is biologically normal. Babies are wired to wake frequently, even when they’ve had a big feed before bed. In fact, waking can be protective, supporting their development, growth, and safety. So rather than thinking of it as a problem to “fix,” it helps to re-frame it as part of their natural rhythm.

Here’s why your baby may still wake, and how to gently support them.

Common Reasons Babies Wake at Night

• Developmental changes: A 4-month-old and an 8-month-old have very different sleep patterns. As the brain matures, sleep cycles lengthen and change, which often leads to more waking for a time.

• Environment: Too hot, too cold, too bright, too noisy, or simply uncomfortable in their sleep space. Babies are sensitive to their surroundings.

• Teething: Teething discomfort can disturb sleep, especially around the gums.

• Illness: Babies can’t tell us they’re poorly, so night waking may be the first clue of a fever or an ear infection.

• Emotional needs: Separation anxiety, missing a parent, or simply needing connection can all trigger night waking.

Myths About Feeding and Sleep

It’s easy to believe that if a baby eats more, they’ll sleep more. But the science tells a different story:

• More milk ≠ more sleep. Overfeeding before bed can make babies uncomfortable. Their digestive systems are still immature, and a stretched tummy can actually worsen night waking.

• Solids won’t “fill them up” earlier. Introducing solids before 6 months doesn’t help babies sleep longer, and can cause tummy discomfort, constipation, or even increase allergy risk if introduced too soon.

• Formula isn’t a magic sleep fix. Some families feel pressure to switch from breastfeeding to formula in the hope of longer stretches. Evidence shows formula doesn’t guarantee better sleep, and breast milk continues to be the most digestible and protective food for infants.

The bottom line: Babies wake for many reasons beyond hunger. Food alone won’t change their biology, and forcing early changes can backfire.

Gentle Ways to Support Night Waking

Trying to force a baby back to sleep without understanding why they woke rarely works and often creates more frustration for both parent and child. Instead, focus on gentle strategies that respect your baby’s biology and your family’s well-being.

• Keep a simple sleep diary. Track sleep and wake times for 5–7 days. Patterns often emerge, showing you if bedtime needs shifting earlier, later, or if naps need adjusting.

• Pause before responding. Sometimes babies stir or fuss but don’t need anything. A short pause gives them the chance to resettle without intervention.

• Optimise the environment. Think cool, dark, calm. Use a room thermometer, breathable sleepwear, blackout blinds, or white noise if external sounds are disruptive.

• Check for comfort. A wet or dirty nappy can cause restlessness. A quick check and change can make a huge difference.

• Balance naps. Too much day sleep can make nights restless, but over-tiredness can do the same. Aim for age-appropriate nap lengths and timing.

• Connection before bed. Babies often wake to reconnect. A calm bedtime routine filled with cuddles, songs, or a short massage helps fill their “connection tank” before sleep.

A Reassuring Note for Parents

Waking at night does not mean your baby is broken or that you’re doing anything wrong. Research consistently shows that waking 1–3 times a night is biologically normal up to at least 12–18 months, and often longer.

The most powerful thing you can do is respond with warmth, consistency, and compassion, and care for yourself, too. Taking turns at night, napping when you can, or lowering expectations of housework can protect your well-being while your little one develops.

Key takeaway: A full tummy isn’t a magic fix for sleep. Night waking is part of the picture of healthy infant development. By understanding the reasons behind it, busting myths, and gently supporting your baby’s needs, you’ll find nights become calmer, for everyone.

For more evidence-based guidance on infant sleep and gentle parenting tools, download the Otti app or sign up to our newsletter.

Sending sleepy dust,

Otti