Your Baby Today

Pediatrics: Lillian Beard, M.D.

We have a 5 month-old healthy, happy baby boy who sleeps in our bed with us and loves it there. The only problem is that he wakes up at least six times a night with a short cry. Could he be having bad dreams?

By Lillian Beard, M.D.

As you may know, many experts have raised the issue of infants' safety when sleeping in the parents' bed. I urge you to discuss this with your baby's pediatrician. Sleep studies show that infants do have dream cycles, so it's possible that his dreams could be responsible for the night awakenings. However, his short cries may not signal distress. Once you have checked to be certain that he is not in an awkward position, wet or hungry, your soothing touch or cuddle should calm and reassure him.

Lillian Beard, M.D.

Pediatrics

Lillian M. Beard, M.D, a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, is an associate clinical professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences in Washington, D.C. She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national television programs, discussing issues related to children's health. Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in Washington, D.C.

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The content on these pages is provided as general information only and should not be substituted for the advice of your physician.