Surviving Sleepless Nights with Newborn Infants

Motherhood is a boon for all women, but nobody can escape the struggle to survive sleepless nights with newborn infants. There is a battle to get adequate sleep despite the multiple feedings and the unexpected diaper changes. On top of that, there are loud cries in the wee hours and bouts of fussiness that can change all new parents into stressed versions of themselves. It is natural to slog through the sleeping desert in the first months of parenthood, and you might be wondering if there is hope for getting through the difficult time. Yes, there is. Proper sleep hygiene can make a lot of difference in maximizing your rest once your baby arrives. It helps to have a wind-down routine, and you must try to get to bed at the same time every night. Here are some tips to make it easier for you to handle the newborn days

Have a good sleep hygiene

The first part of the night is the longest stretch of sleep you will have. Hence, it helps to have proper sleep hygiene where you follow a relaxing routine like reading a few pages of a book, taking a warm bath, and turning off all gadgets at least an hour before bed.

It might be easier said than done, but if you are well-slept and refreshed, you will be able to take better care of your little one. You do not need to have an extensive bedtime routine. Simply pick something that works best for you and stick to it.

Build an ideal sleep environment for you and your baby

Besides working on your bedtime routine, you also need to think of the sleep environment. If your bedroom is not a relaxing place, you will never find quality sleep there.

Keep the exercise bikes, clutter, bills, and unfolded laundry out of your room. They could distract you from getting a good night's sleep. Do not feel guilty if you need to make temporary changes to your sleeping pattern. It is okay to take a break from sleeping in the same bed with your partner. Creating the right environment is not just for you; it is equally important for babies too.

If you are traveling with your child, NapUp offers an ideal solution with their car seat head support. If your child has an excellent environment to sleep in and sleeps well, you will also enjoy longer stretches of sleep. Consider a dark bedroom, white noise machines, or swaddling to help the baby sleep well.

Get help to survive sleepless nights with newborn babies

You will get no awards for powering through sleepless nights with newborn babies by yourself. Hence, if possible, accept help or go ahead and ask for it. You can speak to your family and friends to help you get through the initial days.

All babies sleep in short spurts in a day, and when you allow others to help you with feeding, watching, to changing the baby, it can make a lot of difference. Even if you can get a quick afternoon nap, it will help you a lot.

Ask your partner to take turns

The best help is your partner, and a little teamwork can go a long way. Consider taking turns with your partner at night, getting up when the baby is awake. This way, you will each get some uninterrupted sleep.

Try to go to bed at the same time as the baby and ask your partner to watch. If it is not possible for your partner to help, remember the above tip: accept help.

Consider sleep training

You need to make an effort to help your baby lengthen the sleep stretches.

If you are ready and comfortable doing so, start sleep training. After your baby is four months old, you can see if sleep training works in your family. It may not look the same for everyone, and there are mixed opinions on this subject, but it is worth considering.

Choose a comfortable method and stay consistent for at least a few weeks.

Take up other ways to rejuvenate yourself when sleep isn't possible

There will be days when squeezing 8 hours of sleep will not be possible, but there are other ways you can rejuvenate besides sleep. Try reading, listening to your favorite music, or working on a hobby. This will help you enjoy yourself while reducing stress.

If nothing interests you, put your feet up and watch Netflix! You need to look after yourself as much as your baby.

Do not underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet and exercise. It will help maintain your physical and mental well-being. That said, do not make the mistake of substituting caffeine for sleep. If you drink it all day to stay awake, you will find it difficult to fall asleep at night.

It is okay to prioritize your sleep after being a mom; there is nothing wrong with it. Only when you are healthy and relaxed can you look after your child well.

Can you share any tips on getting sleep with a newborn baby with us?