The Best Way for a New Mom to Get Some Rest: Strategies for Optimal Sleep When Baby Sleeps Through the Night

As a new mother, getting adequate rest can often feel like a distant dream, especially when your baby is sleeping through the night but you are not. There are several approaches to help you achieve this essential rest, such as bed sharing, seeking father's assistance, and napping during the day. Let's explore these strategies in detail:

Bed Sharing or Co-Sleeping

One of the most effective methods for helping new mothers catch their needed rest is bed sharing. This practice can provide comfort and ease for both mother and baby. According to research, mothers are naturally adapted to breastfeed during the night (Parise Carrey, 2014). The hormone prolactin, which reaches higher levels at night, can aid in facilitating this natural process.

When a baby is breastfeeding during sleep, it can lead to several benefits. For example, the baby can receive instant satisfaction, which can prevent disrupting the father's sleep. Additionally, the mother can drift back to sleep more easily after the feed. However, it's important to ensure a safe sleep environment for both mother and baby, adhering to the recommendations set by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Setting Up an Effective Sleep Routine

While bed sharing can be an effective strategy, it's also crucial to establish a routine that ensures the baby’s needs are met without waking up the mother every time. This can be achieved by placing the baby in a different room and using a talking alarm to monitor the baby's movements or cries. By doing so, you can address the baby's needs more efficiently without disturbing your sleep.

Telling yourself that the baby has been without you for several months and that both you and the baby would benefit from rest can also be a good mindset. Additionally, encourage the father to take on a more active role in caring for the baby during the night, providing both emotional and physical support for the mother.

Daytime Naps and Rest

It's equally important to take advantage of daytime opportunities for rest and sleep. If possible, try to nap during the day while your baby is sleeping. This can help you regain some of the sleep lost during the night and contribute to your overall well-being. Moreover, daytime naps can also help you manage the physical demands of caring for a newborn.

If night feedings are an issue and you can't co-sleep, you might consider a compromise. Try placing the baby in a drawer or a nearby bassinet while you nap, and transfer the baby back to their main sleeping area when you wake up. This can provide you with some much-needed rest while ensuring that the baby is not disturbed.

Another option could be to hand the baby over to the father while you rest. This can be a refreshing break and a way to share the responsibilities. Ensure that the father is fully informed about the baby's needs and progress to prevent misunderstandings or stress.

In Conclusion: Prioritize Your Rest

As a new mother, it's essential to prioritize your health and well-being. Both you and your baby will benefit immensely from a well-rested mother. Whether through bed sharing, co-sleeping, or other strategies, it's crucial to find a balance that works for both you and your baby. Remember that this phase of life is temporary, and you will eventually look back at these times with fondness and appreciation for the sleep you did get.

References:

Parise, C., Carrey, R. (2014). Nighttime breastfeeding in healthy preterm infants: a systematic review. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, Neonatal Nursing, 43(5), 704-721. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Safe baby sleep: a parent’s guide. Retrieved from _and_