Motherhood is an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also be draining both physically and emotionally.
For many new moms, one of the more unexpected things about becoming a mother is having to deal with new mom sleep deprivation.
If you’re wondering about the potential risks of sleep deprivation, and ways to get the rest you need, here are some tips to help:
Risks of Sleep Deprivation
Sleep deprivation is never enjoyable, and it can actually have quite a few detrimental effects on the body as well.
Studies from the National Sleep Foundation show that lack of sleep can have a negative impact on both mental and physical health.
Too little sleep may affect memory and concentration, increase stress levels, and even lead to depression. It can also have a negative effect on the immune system, leading to more frequent illnesses.
And moms may struggle even more, as lack of sleep can lead to poor decision making, making parenting even harder.
New Mom Sleep Tips
In order to take care of their families, mothers must first take care of themselves. Getting enough sleep is a must for a new mom to feel capable and confident.
But, of course, that can be easier said than done when there’s a newborn in the house!
Remember, even a small amount of rest can make a big difference when you’re not able to sleep through the night as usual.
Following the old adage of resting when the baby rests is one of the best ways to ensure you don’t end up with new mom sleep deprivation.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Trade nighttime wakeups with your partner, invite family over to lend a hand, whatever it takes!
If you don’t have loved ones nearby to turn to, consider finding extra help and support with childcare services like Sitly, a platform to connect parents with qualified babysitters.
Even just getting an hour or two to yourself a week can go a long way in helping you feel more rested and less overwhelmed.
And if you need to increase deep sleep, some simple changes like a white noise machine or a cooler bedroom may help!
At the end of the day, while it can be hard to make sleep a priority, rest management is an essential part of being a mother.
Taking the time to rest and recharge is not only beneficial for you, but for your newborn as well.
And remember, eventually your little one will be able to sleep through the night, so you can get the rest you need!