Middle-of-the-night feedings are one of the most exhausting parts of the postpartum experience. If you’re in the trenches of sleep deprivation, I’m right there with you. My youngest is 10 months, and I’m a frequent visitor to the 2 AM club. My oldest wasn’t a great sleeper either, so I consider myself a bit of an expert on being up in the middle of the night. Let’s chat about some things you can keep nearby for yourself to support you during those 2 AM Feeds.
Snacks and Hydration
Whether you’re nursing or bottle feeding, keeping your energy up is important. Staying hydrated is essential for your postpartum recovering body and milk production. I always fill my water before I go to bed, because when that breastfeeding thirst hits, it’s like you’re stranded in the desert. If plain water isn’t for you, stashing some electrolyte packets in your feeding space is a great idea.
Another thing I always have at my nursing station is snacks and gum. It helps me fight through the grogginess, especially for that second wakeup of the night. Keeping minty gum or sour candy nearby is a great tactic to wake yourself up without turning on a light that will disturb the baby. Snacks will also help support your energy levels that are being zapped by your baby’s sleep schedule. Protein bars are an easy option to keep nearby. Lactation bites and coconut water drinks are great for your milk supply, if that’s part of your feeding plan.
Entertainment
Having something to do during the feeds can make the long nights a little better. I prefer to watch something or listen to an audiobook. Using headphones is nice because they don’t disturb the baby. They can also help with the overwhelm and overstimulation if your baby is fussy and having a hard time going back to sleep. Picking a show that you’re only going to watch overnight can give you something to look forward to. Maybe it’s a new show you’ve been meaning to watch or an old favorite that’s comforting.
Body Care
In addition to all the baby care items you’ll need nearby, it’s nice to have things on hand for yourself, too. Chapstick and lotion are a must! If you want something extra, you can keep some eye patches or face masks. If you’re nursing, nipple cream and milk collection cups are great things to keep nearby, too.
If you’re in the trenches of sleepless nights, hang in there! This exhausting phase of parenting is exactly that, just a phase, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
