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Becoming a new mother is a beautiful journey but it presents a unique set of challenges. A common burnout for new mothers stems from the struggles with sleep. The breaks in sleep to feed or comfort a baby lead to sleep deprivation that can impact overall health. Lets find out more about the risks sleep deprivation brings for a new Mother and with the help of an expert, understand how to experience an easier and more fulfilling postpartum.
Sleep Deprivation And Risks For New Moms
Dr. Nithiyaa, Consultant Obstetrician and Laparoscopic Surgeon, Apollo Cradle and Children's Hospital, Chennai, Karapakkam, believes that sleep deprivation in new mothers could have adverse effects, not just for the new mother but the child and overall family as well. “Lack of sleep does not allow the body and mind to recover from all of the physical and mental demands of caring for a baby, which leads to feeling tired all of the time,” Nithiyaa says.
Following are some of the ill effects of sleep deprivation in postpartum according to Dr. Nithiyaa:
- Heightened and more frequent mood swings.
- Anxiety.
- Postpartum Depression.
- Weaker immune system.
- Chances of higher blood pressure.
- Prevent weight loss gained during pregnancy.
- Impacts on the mother’s memory, concentration and decision making ability.
- Impacts child care.
What Does The Study Say?
Study shows a strong link between sleep deprivation and postpartum depression (PPD), a condition that affects one in every seven women. New moms experiencing sleep issues are at a higher risk for PPD. Lack of sleep intensifies feelings of sadness, anxiety, and stress. These impact their ability to bond with their baby and manage day-to-day responsibilities. Studies indicate that new moms who don’t get adequate sleep experience heightened cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone. “This leads to mood swings, irritability, and a lowered ability to cope with daily challenges. Additionally, chronic sleep loss reduces serotonin, a mood-regulating neurotransmitter, increasing the likelihood of PPD. Mothers experiencing an emotional disconnect from their babies feel heartbreaking. Fatigue worsens this disconnect, as sleep-deprived moms find it harder to focus on bonding with their babies. When left unmanaged, PPD leads to feelings of guilt, self-doubt, and sadness, making it difficult for mothers to enjoy the early months of motherhood,” the study adds.
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How To Have A Smooth Postpartum?
Dr. Nithiyaa shares a few important tips to manage sleep deprivation in postpartum:
- Share night duties with family or caregivers to prevent routine exhaustion.
- Take short naps during the day. Sleep when the baby sleeps.
- Limit screen time closer to sleep.
- Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated to help support energy and mood.
- Light exercises (like a short walk) can improve sleep quality.
- It is also important to talk to a doctor or counsellor if the sleep problems carry on.
Also Read: Why Millions Of People Sleep With Pain, Neurologist Explains
Conclusion
Not getting enough sleep is undoubtedly frustrating and it takes a toll on new mothers, to a point that one in seven suffer from postpartum depression. However, if we take preemptive measures with the support of our partners and families, the journey could be a smooth sail.