Baby Keeps Rubbing Face And Waking Up: Causes And Solutions

Introduction

As a new parent, you have probably experienced the frustration of your baby constantly rubbing their face and waking up from sleep. You may be wondering what is causing this behavior and how you can help your baby sleep more soundly. In this article, we will explore the common causes of this behavior and provide solutions to help you and your baby get a better night’s sleep.

Causes of Baby Rubbing Face and Waking Up

1. Teething

One of the most common reasons why babies rub their faces and wake up is due to teething. Teething can cause discomfort and pain in the gums, which can lead to your baby rubbing their face and waking up throughout the night. To help your baby during this time, you can give them a teething toy or rub their gums with a clean finger to ease the pain.

2. Allergies

Another reason why your baby may be rubbing their face and waking up is due to allergies. Allergies can cause itchiness and irritation, which can lead to your baby rubbing their face and waking up. To help your baby during this time, you can try using a humidifier in their room to alleviate dry air or try using allergy medicine if recommended by your pediatrician.

3. Skin Irritation

Babies have sensitive skin, and certain fabrics or skincare products can cause irritation and lead to your baby rubbing their face and waking up. To prevent this, make sure to use gentle, fragrance-free products and avoid using rough fabrics that can irritate your baby’s skin.

4. Hunger

Babies need frequent feedings, especially during the first few months of life. If your baby is hungry, they may rub their face and wake up to signal that they need to be fed. Try to establish a feeding schedule and make sure to feed your baby before they get too hungry to prevent them from waking up frequently throughout the night.

Solutions for Baby Rubbing Face and Waking Up

1. Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine

Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can help your baby feel more relaxed and comfortable. A bedtime routine can include a bath, a story, and a lullaby. This routine can signal to your baby that it is time to sleep and help them fall asleep faster.

2. Use White Noise

White noise can help soothe your baby and create a calming environment for them to sleep in. You can use a white noise machine or a phone app to play calming sounds, such as rain or waves, to help your baby sleep more soundly.

3. Swaddle Your Baby

Swaddling your baby can help them feel secure and prevent them from waking up due to their startle reflex. Make sure to swaddle your baby properly and use a swaddle that is appropriate for their age and size.

4. Offer Comfort

If your baby wakes up and starts rubbing their face, try offering comfort by patting their back or singing a lullaby. This can help soothe your baby and help them fall back asleep more easily.

5. Talk to Your Pediatrician

If your baby continues to rub their face and wake up despite trying these solutions, it may be a sign of an underlying issue. Talk to your pediatrician to rule out any medical conditions and get personalized advice on how to help your baby sleep more soundly.

Conclusion

Baby rubbing face and waking up can be frustrating for both you and your baby. By understanding the common causes of this behavior and implementing the solutions outlined in this article, you can help your baby sleep more soundly and improve your own quality of sleep as well. Remember to be patient and consistent, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for personalized advice.