Two Great Reasons to Breastfeed for Better Sleep
Did you know August is National Breastfeeding Awareness month?
Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits for both baby and mom. Babies that breastfeed tend to have stronger immune systems, a lower risk of developing major diseases and certain childhood cancers, less gastrointestinal issues, and more. And of course we know about the pair-bonding that happens with breastfeeding! Your little one will feel safe, secure, and comfortable, improving their overall mental health. Studies have shown that in addition to some of the benefits listed above, breastfed babies sleep an average of 45 minutes longer per night (Engler, 2012).
For many new mommas trying to breastfeed, the cycle is exhausting, with sleep deprivation being a major challenge. A newborn baby will need to nurse every two to three hours, and over the course of a day, this adds up. When feedings come at night, many moms never reach the all important REM sleep phase. Even though experts suggest seven to nine hours of sleep per night for adults, we know how hard it can be for a mom to get uninterrupted, quality sleep. Night feeds lead to sleep deprivation, your body changes, your breasts ache, you're filled with worry about if you’ll produce enough milk, and hundreds of other questions. If you’re able to continue breastfeeding your little one, keep at it!
You may ask yourself the question, “What benefits does breastfeeding have for this tired mom?”
You’ll sleep a lot better!
In addition to burning extra calories, you’ll produce oxytocin, and your milk will have melatonin and prolactin. The melatonin and prolactin are also absorbed into your bloodstream during the feeding. All three of these hormones help to soothe you and are known stress reducers. If you’re less stressed, you’ll more easily develop the coping skills that come with learning your newborn’s needs and bonding with your new baby. Additionally, prolactin helps you fall asleep faster. This is perfect for when you’re exhausted after a feed and really need a break!
There are less moving parts.
Feeding at night becomes easier when you don’t have to stumble around and prepare a bottle. There’s no measuring, no mixing, and very little cleanup, if any at all! Additionally, you can make yourself comfortable and lay on your side while you’re feeding, allowing you to have some rest. Always follow the instructions of a lactation consultant or healthcare professional to make sure you’re in a safe position for you and the baby.
It’s important to note that having your baby sleep through the night is a developmental milestone and not a feeding milestone. If you’re having challenges getting your little one to sleep at night, reach out to our team! We would be happy to discuss your situation and how we can help you and your baby enjoy sweeter sleep.
New from My Sweet Sleeper:
If you’d like to work with a lactation consultant, we are super excited to announce our new partnership with Jacqueline Kincer from Holistic Lactation! Over the years we have teamed up with Jacqueline to provide many expert breastfeeding tips and nutrition advice and so we couldn’t be more thrilled to now be offering a sleep + lactation package for our new parents!
What’s included?
1 hour consultation with one of our sleep consultants
45 minute consultation with Jacqueline Kincer from Holistic Lactation
15% off one class of your choice
This is a great option for new and existing mamas who are needing assistance with both sleep and breastfeeding. You can book now by clicking here.
Related Articles:
Ten ways to get more sleep as an adult
The alarming dangers of sleep deprivation
Six of our favorite self-care products for mom and baby
Exhausted mama here’s how to get more rest
Mama give yourself the gift of simplify
Citations:
Engler, C. et al. Breastfeeding may improve nocturnal sleep and reduce infantile colic: potential role of breast milk melatonin. European Journal of Pediatrics 2012; 171(4):720-32.