If you are the parent of a 9-month-old, you might suddenly feel like your baby has completely forgotten how to sleep. Do not worry—you are not alone. Almost every parent goes through this tricky stage at some point.
Studies suggest that 10–40% of infants experience sleep problems, including difficulties settling and frequent night awakenings.
You might notice your baby waking up more at night, taking shorter naps, and being fussier than usual. The truth is that the 9-month sleep regression can leave even the most patient parents feeling completely worn out.
If you know some tips and tricks, you can help your baby and yourself pass through this phase without spoiling your peace of mind.
What is the 9-Month Sleep Regression?
This is a normal stage in your baby’s development when their sleep suddenly changes and usually not for the better. It is called sleep regression.
It usually shows up between 8 and 10 months, with many babies going through it right around 9 months. Even babies who used to sleep well might start waking up more during the night or refusing their regular naps.
This change often happens as your baby reaches new milestones in growth and learning.
You might notice these changes just as your little one is mastering new abilities, like:
- Crawling
- Standing
- Pulling up or cruising
- Big leaps in brain growth and awareness
What Are Common 9 Month Sleep Regression Signs and Symptoms?
There are a few common signs that many parents notice during the 9-month sleep regression. Here is what to look for:
- Increased night wakings: Babies who slept through the night might suddenly wake up multiple times.
- Shorter or skipped naps: Naptimes can become shorter, or your baby may refuse to nap at all.
- More fussiness: The nine-month-old sleep regression often brings increased crying, clinginess, and crankiness.
- Changes in feeding patterns: Some babies may want to feed more at night. At the same time, others may feel more hungry during the day.
- Separation anxiety: Your baby may cry more when you leave the room or seem more attached than usual.
- Restless sleep: You may notice more tossing and turning, or your baby waking up earlier.
What Are the Causes of 9-Month Sleep Regression?
Knowing why the 9-month sleep regression happens can help you feel more prepared and less stressed during this time. Here are a few main reasons behind it:
1. Developmental Milestones
At nine months, babies experience rapid development. Many start learning to crawl, pull up, or even take their first steps.
These exciting new skills can disrupt sleep, as the brain is busy processing and practicing, even sometimes at night.
2. Mental and Emotional Growth
Around 9 months, your baby’s brain goes through a big growth spurt. One important change is that they start to understand object permanence. This means they now realize you still exist even when you are not in the room.
This new skill is a big step in how they think and feel—it shows that their brain and emotions are growing fast.
3. Physical Changes
Growth spurts, teething, and changes in eating habits can also play a big role.
When babies are teething, the pain can make it hard for them to sleep. And during growth spurts, they may feel hungrier than usual, which can also wake them up more often at night.
How Long Does the 9th Month Sleep Regression Last?
The nine month old sleep regression can be intimidating but luckily, it is temporary. For most families, it lasts anywhere from two to six weeks. Some babies move through the 9 months sleep regression quickly, while others take a little longer.
Here are signs that your baby is moving past the regression:
- Night wakings start to decrease.
- Naps become more predictable.
- Fussiness and separation anxiety lessen.
- Feeding patterns return to normal.
If your baby's sleep regression 9 months phase lasts longer than six weeks, it's better to review your sleep routines or talk to your pediatrician to check for any underlying issues.
8 Simple Ways to Get Through the 9-Month Sleep Regression
The best way to handle the 9 months sleep regression is by being calm, understanding and sticking to a steady routine. Here are some easy tips to help make this phase easier for both you and your baby:
1. Keep a Consistent Bedtime Routine
If you follow a consistent bedtime routine, this will help your baby identify that sleep time is coming.
Use calming activities like a warm bath, gentle rocking, a lullaby, or reading a favorite book. Keeping the order and timing the same each night is vital.
2. Offer Comfort Without Creating New Habits
It is normal to want to soothe your baby during the nine-month-old sleep regression, but try not to introduce new sleep associations that you will need to break later (such as rocking to sleep every night).
Soothe, reassure and help your baby settle, but encourage them to fall asleep on their own when possible.
3. Address Separation Anxiety
At this stage, it's completely normal for your baby to feel genuinely anxious or upset when you leave the room.
Practice brief separations during the day and always say goodbye before you leave. At night, offer reassurance with a gentle voice or a pat on the back without picking up your baby unless necessary.
4. Adjust Nap and Bedtime Schedules
Your baby may need extra sleep during the 9 mo sleep regression or, at times, might resist naps altogether.
Pay attention to sleepy cues, and be flexible with nap lengths and timing. A slightly earlier bedtime can help if nights are especially tough.
5. Respond to Hunger but Watch for Habits
Growth spurts can make babies genuinely hungry at night. Offer extra feedings if your baby seems hungry, but be mindful not to create a habit of night feeding if it is not needed.
6. Set up a Sleep-Friendly Environment
Ensure the room is dark and quiet. Use white noise if it proves helpful. Make sure your baby has a safe and comfortable sleep space.
7. Dress Your Baby in Comfortable Sleepwear
Soft, breathable pajamas or a onesie can help your baby sleep better and stay comfortable all night. Avoid clothes with scratchy tags or tight elastic that might disturb their rest.
8. Prioritize Your Own Well Being Too
Make sure you also take proper rest. Share nighttime duties with a partner if possible.
Accept help from family and friends. Even brief breaks during the day can make a big difference.
When to Seek Help?
Most babies move through the 9 month sleep regression with time and patience. Still, there might be a need to reach out to your pediatrician or a sleep expert:
- The regression lasts more than six weeks.
- Your baby is losing weight, feeding poorly, or not gaining as expected.
- You notice symptoms like persistent fever, vomiting, or breathing problems.
Final Words
The 9 month sleep regression is actually a good sign that your baby is growing, learning, and hitting new milestones. The important thing to remember is that this phase will not last forever.
With patience, a steady routine, and the right support, you will help your baby get back to better sleep.
FAQS
Can teething make the 9 month sleep regression worse?
Teething can increase discomfort and may cause more frequent night wakings. Use safe teething remedies and consult your pediatrician about the options for quick relief.
Will sleep training work during the 9 month regression?
Gentle sleep training methods can be effective in this phase, but be patient. If your baby is especially anxious or unwell, you might want to pause and try again when things settle.
Should you change sleep routines during 9 month sleep regression?
Be as consistent as possible in your regular routine. Familiar routines help your baby feel secure, even when sleep is disrupted.