The Secrets Of Getting More Sleep When You Have A Newborn

Whether it’s caused by anxiety or a restless baby, sleep deprivation is something most new parents have to deal with. Many are given the advice of sleeping when their newborn sleeps, but this is often easier said than done. There are household chores to be done, and you might want to spend time with your partner. Sometimes sleep, no matter how much you might need it, isn’t always a top priority. But depriving yourself too much can be detrimental to your health and could also put you and your newborn at risk. So here are some unveiled secrets that could help you get the shut-eye you need.

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Alternate

Alternating who provides nighttime feeds and comfort to your baby, is a secret that all new parents should use. It can be tempting only to let the one who isn’t currently working to deal with your baby during the night. But this can result in you functioning on very little energy each day. By alternating this role with your partner, you both get a few extra hours of sleep each night.

If you are breastfeeding your newborn, that doesn’t mean you can’t use this method. You just need to express and bottle your breast milk. That way your partner can share the load. If you are a single parent, why not ask your parents or a friend to help you out.

Keep your baby nearby

Even though you’ve decorated a beautiful nursery for them to sleep in, having your baby nearby can make you feel more relaxed. Getting up throughout the night to check on your baby provides stimulation which can make it difficult for you to sleep. But having them nearby means you don’t even have to get out of bed to make sure they are OK. Consider buying a Moses basket or crib that can attach or be positioned next to your bed, instead of having them in another room. This closeness will be beneficial to both you and your baby by making you feel less anxious. It can also make it easier to nurse your newborn during the night.

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Make your bed enticing

Your bed should be the most comfortable place in your entire home and facilitate sleeping perfectly. But if it is uncomfortable or looks messy, it’s not going to entice you to spend time in it. Even though you will have hundreds of other things on your mind, do your best to make your bed look good. You don’t need thousands of throw pillows and fancy runners if you don’t want to. Just make sure it’s made, looks clean and that the pillows look plump. If a lack of comfort is stopping you from dozing off, use this pocket spring mattress advice guide. It’s likely your mattress needs replacing with something that has more support.

So give one or all of these secrets a try and see if they work for you. It’s important to remember that this is not a permanent thing, and you and your baby will soon get into a routine. For more help and support visit the Netmums website.