Becoming a new mum can be exhausting especially when your little one wakes up several times a night.
However, while you may not be able to catch a full seven hours at night, you will be able to clock up your sleep in other ways.
Avoid caffeine
Avoid drinking caffeine late in the afternoon as it can cause nighttime sleep to become fragmented. Remember, caffeine is not just present in coffee and tea it is also in chocolate and fizzy drinks.
Nap during the day
Taking a nap when your little one is having one can help combat feelings of fatigue. Make sure you keep it to less than 20 minutes otherwise you will wake up feeling worse.
Have a routine
A regular bedtime routine is not just important for babies, it is also important for mums. When you are only getting a small amount of sleep at night it is vital that you stick to a routine that allows you to wind down before bed.
Stick to a light meal
Avoid spicy meals too close to bedtime as it can leave you feeling heavy and unwell. Eat your dinner earlier in the day or stick to something light.
Don’t try too hard
If you can’t sleep try instead to read or listen to music - fretting will just leave you feeling more anxious.
Get a babysitter
If a family member or friend offers to mind your little one for an hour or so make sure you take them up on that offer. Rather than doing housework, try to grab a nap and spend the rest of the time relaxing. You deserve it.
Split nighttime duties
If you can, try to split nighttime duties with your partner. This way you won’t be experiencing continuous nights of broken sleep.
Remember, when you have a baby in the house, it is not just the quantity of sleep that you get which is important, it is the quality too.
