Becoming a mother is an exciting journey. The thought of cuddling with your little one can bring a surge of incomparable emotions. However, it is not always going to be easy. More often than not, mothers, especially the new moms, have to deal with fatigue and sleepless nights, which can lead to postpartum depression.
Tips for Getting Quality Sleep
As a first-time parent, you should do everything to care for your newborn child. Make it possible with these tips:
1. Talk to your partner
It is essential to be open to your partner about your sleep needs. Caring for your new baby should not only fall on the shoulders of the mother. Your partner should have an active role as well. Talk about having a schedule that will work best for the two of you. Taking turns in putting the baby to sleep or bathing can have positive effects. This way, your partner can also bond with your newborn, and you can get your much-needed rest.
2. Delegate other responsibilities at home
If you have other responsibilities and obligations at home that require your attention, don’t hesitate to delegate them. If you have older kids, you can pass on the task to them. It would help significantly if you can train or teach them early on. Teaching other chores should ideally begin when you are still in your second trimester.
3. Get as much sleep whenever possible
While you may have someone to take turns taking care of the baby, you are still the primary caregiver, particularly if you are breastfeeding. Stop worrying about the piles of dishes on the sink or the laundry. Let other people do these for you. Your main concern is to get quality sleep whenever possible. Often, this time is when your baby is sleeping.
4. Accept help
Some will be embarrassed to admit that they are fatigued and need help. When friends and relatives visit, you can expect them to offer assistance. Take advantage of any service they are willing to provide. Running an errand can give you a few hours of sleep that would significantly affect your mental and physical health.
5. Don’t feel guilty when you sleep
Far too often, mothers feel guilty when they sleep instead of doing their chores, such as cleaning the home or spending some time with their other children. This should not be the case. First, you have to understand that sleep is not a luxury. It is a medical requirement that you need to follow. Whenever possible, make sure you have a comfortable sleep. According to Dreamsleep Mattress Center, having a good mattress helps ensure a good night’s sleep.
6. Follow a feeding schedule
If you are breastfeeding your baby, you may be tempted to feed on demand. While this may be ideal, it may not be healthy if you are fatigued and stressed. Remember, your stress level can have an impact on your milk production. If you are too stressed, your milk supply will become too low. In turn, this will affect your baby’s overall health. An option would be to follow a feeding schedule. This way, you can predict when your baby will likely feed, making it easier for you to plan your sleep. Plus, it will also help your baby follow a sleeping pattern as well.
7. Identify sleep disorders
Many believe that new mothers are always sleep deprived that no one might think that they may have underlying sleep disorders confounded by the new baby’s arrival. Ideally, quick naps should be enough to rejuvenate and re-energize you. If you feel like it isn’t doing you much good, it might be best to consult an expert.
With sleep deprivation out of the way, you can truly enjoy spending time with your newborn.