Navigating New Parenthood: Coping with Sleep Deprivation and Safer Sleep Tips

Coping with sleep deprivation as a new parent can pose significant challenges. You might feel as though other people's infants sleep more than yours, or you may worry about your parenting techniques. More detail on normal sleep patterns for babies can be found here https://www.basisonline.org.uk/how-babies-sleep/

All babies are unique, but it's common for healthy infants to wake during the night in their initial months of life. Newborns have small stomachs, necessitating feedings every two hours or so. According to a recent survey by The Lullaby Trust (https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/safer-sleep-advice/) 59% of parents with babies under 1 year old report their baby sleeps for less than 4 hours at a stretch. Additionally, 44% of parents believe their baby should be sleeping longer than they actually do.

While well-intentioned advice and the notion that specific products or practices can extend a baby's sleep duration may pressure parents, attempting to make a baby sleep longer or deeper than their natural pattern can be detrimental and elevate the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Managing sleep deprivation as a new parent can be challenging. Adhering to safe sleep guidelines, even when fatigued, is crucial in reducing the risk of SIDS. Deviating from these guidelines, such as placing a baby to sleep on their tummy, even once, can endanger them.

The Lullaby Trust's ABCs of safer sleep can safeguard your baby and offer peace of mind:

1. Always place your baby on their back in a clear crib or sleep space.

2. If you think you might fall asleep in bed with your baby, ensure there are no pillows, adult bedding, pets, or other children nearby.

3. If you're a smoker or have consumed alcohol, plan for your baby to sleep in their own crib or Moses basket before you fall asleep.

Dealing with extreme tiredness can be challenging. If you're struggling with sleep deprivation, seeking support from others can help. It may be uncomfortable to ask for assistance, but parenting isn't meant to be a solitary endeavor, and people are often willing to help. Having a trusted friend, family member, or neighbour watch your baby for an hour or so while you catch up on sleep can make a significant difference. Seeking support from you Health Visitor or GP can also be beneficial.