Originally Posted by
davejag
My daughter is 3 weeks old and has her days and nights mixed up, she gets up around 2 am and stays up till 7 am strait. How can I brake that cycle? I tired everything to keep her up today and nothing has worked.
It's perfectly normal, but not easy to get used to. Since you have been working on building your milk supply, wake her after just two hours during the day... change her diaper, tickle down her back, use a wipe or wet washcloth on her, give her a bath, etc.. If she is just out, give her a bit more time and try again. Watch for any hunger cues she gives... crying is the last one and means you missed earlier cues. Tongue thrusting, smacking lips, becoming a bit more animated, suckling on her hand, rooting when something touches her cheek or mouth, are all signs she would likely feed well.
Swaddling works well with most young babies, they are used to be held close and snug while inside you. Keep her arms down to her sides and wrap her fairly tightly... flailing arms will only cause her to wake herself up... and later she will likely resist having the constraint.
It does get easier... the first several weeks tend to be the most trying as everyone, baby included, is getting used to so many changes. Take any offers of help you get from family and friends.