I Can Get Enough Rest While Nursing My Baby

How many times, as a mom-to-be, have you heard people say, “Better get your rest before the baby comes, because once they are here you won’t get any”?

Although getting enough rest can sometimes seem almost impossible for new moms, the good news is that, with a little planning, it can happen.

Babies tend to wake up a lot, and growth spurts can also add to the number of feedings your baby needs in a day, which can make napping or resting more challenging. So, it’s important to give yourself the time and permission to rest and settle into your new routine.

Here are some things you can do that may help you to take advantage of those times when your baby is sleeping.

• Let others help! This can be hard for many moms, who might think they need to do it all. But accepting help can make it easier for you to get some much needed rest. Let others make some meals for you, buy groceries, do some housework, wash dishes or do laundry for you. Keep in mind that you can always return the favour when they need it most.
• Afternoon naps are a good thing! If you have let other people help you, it’s a lot easier to give yourself the time for a daytime nap when baby is sleeping. Your baby might be up a lot at night and if you are up in the day, you will likely be very tired at night. An afternoon nap will help you feel refreshed for the evening and night feeds.
• Learn to nurse lying down. It is much easier to nurse in a lying down position when you are tired. If you are very tired and you fall asleep while nursing in a chair, you risk dropping your baby. If you doze off lying on a safe bed, your baby will be safer. Make sure you do not sleep with your baby if you are on any medications that make you drowsy or if you are a smoker or have used alcohol.

Breastfeeding is the foundation of life! Supporting you through all stages of life … it’s what we do!