My son won't sleep unless I'm holding him. Is this normal?

Apr 13·1 min read

My wife and I just brought our 2 week old home from the hospital and he seems to be doing okay during the day but at night he screams the second we put him down in the bassinet. The only way he'll sleep is if I'm holding him. I've tried everything - white noise, warming up the mattress, burping him more. I'm exhausted but also terrified to put him down because what if something happens? My mom says this is normal but I feel like we're doing something wrong. Anyone else deal with this?

4 comments194 views

Comments(4)

MMikeRegularApr 14

Hang in there man. This stage passes faster than you think. My advice is to embrace it when you can and try taking shifts with your wife so you both get some rest.

RRob H.RegularApr 15

Yeah my son was the same way when he was 2 weeks old. Exhausting but it does pass. Try putting him down once he's really deeply asleep. You'll start to figure out the timing.

VVincentRegularApr 13

Totally normal dude. That newborn phase is rough. He's basically spent 9 months against your wife so being held is the closest thing to that feeling. Give it a few weeks and it gets easier.

DDerekNew DadApr 14

Completely normal. You're doing it right just by being there. The fourth trimester is all about comfort and closeness. Before you know it he won't want you holding him anymore, trust me.