My baby wakes me up during the night and I'm...

My baby wakes me up during the night and I'm exhausted - I need help!

If your child has sleep problems, it means that you have sleep problems as well. When your baby wakes up a few times during the night, you have to get up to tend to him or her. Of course, this means that you become totally exhausted after a while.

Before you become so exhausted that you are not able to cope, find one of the many books that are available on the subject of sleep problems. There is a good chance that you will find a solution to your situation and a way to remedy it.

However, if you have tried without success to treat the sleep problem, then it is recommended that you visit your doctor or your child’s paediatrician, as there could be behavioural or health problems that are keeping your baby awake. If you still do not achieve positive results then a visit to a sleep specialist might be necessary.

More questions

What can I do if lack of sleep is hurting my relationship?

Being sleep deprived does not make for a happy relationship. If you’re suffering from lack of sleep, there are a few things you can try.

My baby's asleep but I'm wide awake. Now what?

It is very important that you do not use sleep remedies, including the herbal variety, before talking to your doctor - they could have an adverse affect if you are breastfeeding.

I know that my partner and I will fight, but is there such a thing as fair fighting?

When the argument you are having involves your children, it is a much better idea to have this fight behind closed doors, away from your children.

New baby hygiene: should everyone wash their hands?

Making sure your newborn stays healthy and happy is as much about common sense as it is about care and washing hands is one of the simplest ways to ensure it.

Granny helping out is putting a strain on our relationship. What can I do?

If you find that you and your mother are locking horns over child care issues then it’s time to assert your wishes.

I need to know if it is right to fight in front of our child

Most people agree that fighting in front of children is inappropriate. However, many people also agree that, as long as your child is brought up in a loving, warm, free home, they will learn that the occasional disagreement between their loving parents is simply a part of life.

My baby wakes me up during the night and I'm exhausted - I need help!

If your child is big enough you might consider a star chart for good behaviour. Each time your child goes to bed without any trouble, he or she gets a star. If at the end of the week he has seven stars on his chart then he gets a special treat.

I think my parents are getting too old to look after my son. Should I look for alternatives?

Choosing to change child care after your parents have been looking after your child for months or years can be a delicate subject but, handled correctly, it can be done.

How long can someone go without a lot of sleep?

The right amount of sleep differs from individual to individual and even between cultures.

How can I maintain my friendships now that I have a baby?

Negotiating the changes in friendships that a child brings can be tricky for any new mom, but it is possible.