Sleepy preterm baby?

lokiedog

Hi, everyone...lurker here with a question!

My daughter was born last week at 36 weeks 5 days.  She's fine as far as weight and other health issues go: she was 7 pounds, 1 ounce, and is gaining weight like crazy.  But she's just so...sleepy.  She only opens her eyes about once or twice a day.  Is this normal?  The doctor wasn't worried, but that was three days ago.  She's still sleepy.  Do they just need some time to catch up?

It's just such a contrast to when daughter number one was born two years ago, and cried and CRIED.                                                                          

hokies94

DS was born at 37 weeks (but I think the dates are off and he is a lot younger).  He was 5lbs 13 oz.  He sleeps constantly!  We are lucky if he is awake for an hour a day.  He is 3 weeks tomorrow and he still sleeps all the time.  He also had some jaundice issues which made him tired.  

He's my third and sleeps more then either of my girls did at this age.  I know one day he'll be more alert.  I'm enjoying the quiet right now.  

hmms

I've always said DS slept the first 4-5 weeks of his life - then he "woke" up and told us he was here - weeks 6-10 were much "louder", some evenings for hours in a row 

lokiedog

Thanks for your experiences!  I'm sure that in a few weeks, I'll be looking back longingly on this peace and quiet.  It's too easy right now!

Mrs. Destructo

My kids were 30 weekers, so earlier than your kiddo. But yeah, they slept A TON at first. Poop, eat, sleep. Poop, eat, sleep. They were never awake for more than about 30 min at a time until they were at least 2 months adjusted.

mrs.amandamm

Addie was super sleepy for a couple months.  I think ALL babies are sleepy when they are brand new, and maybe a little moreso with preemies.  I think it is completley normal, and would be to nap all the time! haha!