6 Month Sleep Regression Or Teething? | Here’s How You Know

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Many people seem to think that the newborn phase is the toughest stage in a child’s early development, and that after sleep training is complete, it’s smooth(ish) sailing from there. But actually, around the six-month mark, things can become difficult again! And if you haven’t yet sleep trained your baby, it could make starting that process even harder.

So the question many parents ask is: Is this the 6-month sleep regression or teething?

This question is fair, because both the 6-month sleep regression and teething tend to happen around the same time. It can be hard to determine which one is causing the disruption and the two combined can make for a really tough phase in both your baby’s life and your own.

Here’s how to tell the difference between a sleep regression and teething, as well as what to do about both.

What Is the 6-Month Sleep Regression?

A sleep regression is a period when a baby’s sleep patterns suddenly change. Your baby may become restless during the night or start waking up earlier than usual.

Sleep regressions can happen at several points in a baby’s early life starting at around 4 months and all the way to 24 months. While 6 months isn’t the most typical time, it can happen.

These regressions are usually caused by developmental changes. Your baby might be growing physically, learning new skills like rolling or crawling, or you guessed it... dealing with teething pain.

What Is Teething?

Teething is the process of your baby’s first teeth breaking through the gums. This is often painful and can cause a variety of symptoms and behavior changes. Teething can begin as early as 3 to 4 months or as late as 12 months, but 6 months is a common time for it to start.


How Do You Know If It’s Sleep Regression or Teething?

As you’ve probably figured out by now, teething can actually cause a sleep regression. So, your baby may be experiencing both at once.

But if you want to narrow it down, here are the most common signs of each:

Signs of a Sleep Regression:

  • Trouble falling asleep

  • Waking more often during the night

  • Fussiness at nap times

  • Crankiness throughout the day due to lack of sleep

Signs of Teething:

  • Sore, red, or swollen gums

  • Rash or flushed cheeks

  • Rubbing the ears

  • Chewing on toys or fingers

  • Increased drooling

  • Slight fever

  • Trouble sleeping

  • General fussiness or anxiety

What to Do If It’s a 6-Month Sleep Regression

If you suspect a sleep regression, try these methods:

  • Establish a bedtime routine. Help your baby associate certain activities  like rocking, lullabies, or dim lighting — with sleep.

  • Consider switching to two naps. Many babies go from three naps to two around this age. A bit less daytime sleep may help with nighttime rest.

  • Nap when your baby naps. Yes, it’s the classic advice  but during regressions, you’ll need the rest too.

What to Do If It’s Teething

If teething seems to be the issue, here are some ways to help your baby feel more comfortable:

  • Give them a teething ring chilled in the fridge, not the freezer.

  • Gently massage their gums with a clean finger.

  • Wipe away drool to prevent rashes on the face.

  • Ask your pediatrician about pain relief if your baby seems really uncomfortable.

What NOT to Do:

  • Don’t use teething necklaces, bracelets, or anklets  these can pose choking or strangulation risks.

  • Avoid teething gels  many have not been proven effective and can be harmful.

  • Never tie a teething toy around your baby’s neck.


Conclusion

So, is it the 6-month sleep regression or teething? Sometimes, it’s one or the other. Often, it’s both. But now that you know the signs of each and what you can do to help, you’re better prepared to handle this stage.

Hang in there ~ this too shall pass!

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