If you’re a new mom, getting a good night of sleep can be one of the most challenging things you have to do. After all, your days and nights are now about this little bundle of joy that just came into the world and while you love them to pieces, you sure do miss your nights of sleep.
Don’t give up hope just yet, mama. There are different ways you can make sure to get some rest, even if your little one stays up at night every now and then. Take a look at these tips that will help you get better sleep as a new mom:
Set yourself up for success
While your baby is a huge factor in your sleep schedule being disrupted, there are other factors that impact your night of sleep as well. How is your bed set up? Is it comfortable with the right kind of bedding for relaxation? For example, a heavy blanket and soft sheets are a great combination that will allow you to sink right in when it’s time to sleep. Also think about things like noise level outside your bedroom and even the temperature.
Consider baby’s bed as well
Where does your baby sleep? If you have a crib for them to sleep in at night, this may be perfect for your little one, but does it mean you have to get up constantly for feedings? A bassinet that attaches to your bed could make it easy for night-time feedings. Just make sure to look for a bassinet that meets safety requirements.
Ask for help
While your baby needs mama for feedings, unless you’re a bottle-feeding family, your spouse can help out at night as well. After nursing, your little one may want to stay awake or play. You did your part, now let your partner take a turn. Working out a plan in advance of the baby’s arrival can help ensure the full weight of nighttime care doesn’t fall on the mom’s shoulders.
Don’t be afraid to take a nap
Take your naps. When your newborn goes down for a nap during the day, don’t be afraid to take one with them. While, yes, your house may be messy, or things need to be done, you need your sleep and in the first months, it may be hard to get all the hours of sleep you need at night.
You don’t need to feel ashamed of a messy house or time off from other responsibilities during this time; you and your baby are priority for now. If you must have your house spotless, now could be a good time to invest in quality house cleaning. Now is the time to spend with your family; the rest can wait.
Hire help if needed
Many parents hire a sitter when the sleepless nights become too much. Even if you invest in a babysitter so you can get some rest in the day, after a night of numerous feedings with the little one, that’s okay.
While it may cost you some extra money, when you find yourself well-rested because your reliable babysitter kept the baby happy for a few hours, you’ll know that it’s worth it. If you’re a working mom, you may also be able to benefit from a sitter’s help as you balance work and baby life. This may be a helpful solution if you don’t have family in town.
More than anything, don’t forget that this time won’t last forever. The rough nights typically only last for the first few months, although in some cases, your baby could be a restless sleeper for the first 6 months or so.
With a little bit of help, a relaxed environment, and plenty of naps, you’ll get through this. Trust me; one day you’ll look back and miss these times as you pass down the family business and remember when your offspring was just a cute little newborn.