Episode 15 | Surviving Night Feeds: Tips for New Parents from a Midwife

Ep 15 | Surviving Night Feeds: Tips for New Parents from a Midwife

Today, let’s talk about coping with night feeds and the challenges that come with them.

The reality of caring for a newborn baby often involves round-the-clock feeding sessions, leaving parents feeling exhausted both physically and emotionally. But fear not, there are strategies that can help set you up for success during these challenging times.

Most newborn babies will need to feed every 2-4 hours and that is day and night, their tiny stomachs can’t fit very much milk and they digest it quickly and then need another feed.

Firstly, let’s set the scene for those late-night rendezvous. Creating a comfortable night feed station is key. Think cozy chair, a snack and drink for yourself, a good book or magazine, and perhaps a dim lamp to keep the environment soothing for both you and baby.

Don’t forget the night change station! Having all essentials within arm’s reach can make those nappy changes a breeze, ensuring minimal disruption to your baby’s sleep.

When it comes to dressing your little one for the night, opt for functional clothes like a onesie for easy access during those frequent nappy changes. Keep the fancy outfits with buttons for daytime adventures.

Investing in good quality disposable nappies can also aid in longer stretches of sleep for your baby, as they draw liquid away from their delicate skin.

Now, let’s talk self-care.

Embrace these quiet moments at night. Whether it’s indulging in your favourite book or guilty pleasure TV show, use this time to recharge and rejuvenate.

And during the day, remember that naps are not a luxury but a necessity. Prioritize rest whenever you can to keep your energy levels up.

Finding the right bedtime routine for both you and your baby is crucial. While some may benefit from an early bedtime, others may prefer staying up later to minimize nighttime awakenings. Experiment and see what works best for you.

But remember, you don’t have to go it alone. Communicate with your partner about sharing the nighttime duties. Whether it’s through bottle feeding of expressed breastmilk or formula or simply offering emotional support, sharing the load can make a world of difference.

However, there may be moments when the crying feels overwhelming. In those times, it’s important to take a step back and practice self-care. Never hesitate to ask for help if you’re feeling frustrated or overwhelmed.

And always remember, “This too shall pass.” Your baby won’t be tiny forever, and as they grow, nighttime feedings will become less frequent.

So, hang in there, you’re doing an incredible job navigating through these challenging early days of parenthood. And remember, there’s a whole community of support available to you whenever you need it.

Connect With Belinda:

Web: www.BelindaJoyce.com
Facebook: @BelindaJoyceMidwife
Instagram: @belinda_joyce_midwife
TikTok: @belinda_joyce_midwife

Download Belinda’s FREE Baby Bundle:

• Checklists for baby equipment, hospital bag, nappy bag, travel & childcare bag
• Newborn Sleep Flowchart-what to do next
• Baby Feed & Sleep Tracker

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