Priya Sharma Priya Sharma Asked 4 months ago

Why do newborns jump in their sleep?

My little one is just a month old, and sometimes while sleeping, she suddenly makes these jumping movements. It's like she gets startled for a second. Is this normal for newborns?

6

6 answers

Meera Sharma Meera Sharma Joined Apr 2026 4 months ago
Most liked

Ah, the Moro reflex! Totally normal. My two kids did it constantly, scared me initially but it's just them startling. Swaddling really helps with this, gives them that snug feeling. They usually outgrow it in a few months.

Sonia Mehta Sonia Mehta Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago

It's completely normal to feel a bit anxious when you see your little one jump like that, especially when you're a new parent. It's called the Moro reflex, and it's a sign their nervous system is developing properly. Don't worry, it's not a seizure or anything serious.

Rajesh Patil Rajesh Patil Joined Mar 2026 4 months ago

That's the startle reflex, quite common in newborns. Many parents find that swaddling helps them sleep more peacefully by reducing these sudden movements. Just make sure the swaddle isn't too tight and is done safely, as per pediatrician's advice.

Powered by

Consult a internal medicine specialist

Priya Singh Priya Singh Joined Apr 2026 4 months ago

I remember seeing my baby jump and my heart would just stop every single time. It feels so intense, like they're having a bad dream. It's really reassuring to know it's a normal reflex. You're not alone in worrying.

Kiran Kumar Kiran Kumar Joined Feb 2026 4 months ago

Oh, is that the 'startle reflex' everyone talks about? I've seen videos and it looks pretty intense. Good to know it's a natural part of their development and not something to be alarmed by.

Related reads

All articles
Anjali Rao Anjali Rao Joined May 2026 4 months ago

My niece used to do this a lot when she was a tiny baby, looked like she was dreaming intensely! Her parents were told it's just a normal reflex. It looked cute but also surprising sometimes. Just sharing what I've seen.

Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.