Newborn baby, won't sleep - please help!

[Rachel2007]

Our new born, born 5 days ago refuses to sleep unless he is lying on either his mum or his dad. He can be fast asleep on either of us and then as soon as we attempt to move him to his moses basket or pram, he wakes up and starts crying. Any tips on how we get him to sleep in either his moses basket or his pram?

[Piffle]

He probably loves beign on his tummy
But due to the fear of cot death it is not advised to do so.
Have you tried swaddling as it calms the baby and reduces his startle reflex.

[Chattyhan]

You could try putting something that smells of you in with him such as a muslin / item of clothing you've been using or a breast pad. It may provide some comfort. We used a sheepskin blanket to make him feel cosy but can be expensive - we were given one! I think you're right to stop this habit now.

[Rachel2007]

Thanks Piffle, will give swaddling a go

[MrsBadger]

have you a decent sling (not the babybjorn type)?

if he'll sleep in that at least you could move around and/or get things done while he sleeps during the day - appreciate it doesn't solve the night though...

[Sunyshineymummy]

We bought a rocking swing thingy and DS slept in that quite a bit when he was first born as he wouldn't go down anywhere else (at least not in the evening). Some people don't like this but it worked for us.

[NKF]

I hate to say it but often they want to sleep on an adult at five days old. Slings are good though. At least you can get on with something else.

[Piffle]

my ds hates the sling but loves the bjorn
Go figure

He a

[DrDaddy]

I used to put DS1 in his moses basket and turn on the washing machine. That did the trick...
Don't worry too much at 5 days old. It's early days...
Congrats btw and good luck!

[RachelG]

I think this is normal. After all, less than a week ago he was surrounded by warm fluid, now he's exposed to the big outside world. Lots of babies want to sleep on another person - the warmth and comfort feels normal to them.

How long after he goes to sleep are you trying to move him? It takes 15 minutes to go into deep sleep - maybe try moving him after that length of time, he might settle elsewhere then, at least for half an hour or so.