One of the most common pieces of unhelpful advice to expectant parents is, “Sleep now while you still can!” While it might sound supportive, this advice is not only unhelpful but can also feel frustrating for many parents-to-be. In reality, sleep is much harder to come by than people often realise, and this type of advice completely misses the mark. Let’s break down why this advice doesn’t work and what might be more useful instead.
The Reality of Sleep Disruptions During Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings its own set of sleep challenges. When people tell you to “sleep now,” they overlook the fact that sleep doesn’t always come easily for expectant parents. From the very beginning of pregnancy, many people find themselves tossing and turning due to back pain, frequent trips to the bathroom, or the physical discomfort of carrying extra weight. These issues make it hard to get a restful night’s sleep, so the idea that you can “stockpile” sleep before the baby arrives is simply unrealistic.
Even though the pregnancy period is often more restful than the newborn phase, it’s still challenging for many. According to sleep consultants, up to 78% of pregnant people experience sleep disruptions, with some even waking up multiple times a night due to discomfort. This makes the advice “sleep now while you still can” feel more discouraging than helpful.
Why Postpartum Sleep Is Even More Challenging
Once the baby arrives, the chances of a full night’s sleep dwindle even more. Babies, especially in the first few months, are notorious for waking up at all hours of the night. This means that even if you could somehow “sleep now,” your nights after birth will likely be interrupted by your baby’s feeding and sleep schedule. Plus, new parents often experience a mix of hormonal shifts and heightened anxiety, which makes it even harder to sleep.
The advice to “sleep now” does not prepare expectant parents for the reality of the postpartum period, where insomnia and sleep disruptions can continue due to the mental and emotional load of caring for a newborn. The idea of resting and preparing in advance simply doesn’t align with the challenges most parents face once the baby is born.
What to Expect Instead
Instead of offering “sleep now” advice, it’s more helpful to acknowledge that sleep will be disrupted, but manageable. Every parent’s sleep journey is different, and finding what works for you and your baby is key.
For those struggling with sleep during pregnancy or after childbirth, experts suggest trying a few things to help improve sleep quality:
- Eat Well and Stay Hydrated: Proper nutrition can help manage energy levels and improve sleep.
- Exercise: A light walk during the day can help the body wind down more easily at night.
- Get Some Sunlight: Natural light exposure during the day helps regulate your body’s internal clock, promoting better sleep.
- Relaxation Techniques: If you’re awake at night, try relaxing activities like reading or meditation to calm your mind.
Building a Support System and Managing Expectations
An important part of handling sleep disruptions is having realistic expectations. The newborn phase is tough, and it’s important to be prepared for sleepless nights. Instead of focusing on “sleeping now,” it’s helpful to lean on your support system for help with childcare, housework, or just a break when needed. No parent should feel like they have to do everything on their own.
It’s also important to remember that sleep challenges are temporary. While it can be overwhelming, it’s just a phase that will pass. Parents can take comfort in knowing that their sleep will improve over time as they adjust to their baby’s rhythm.
Final Thoughts
So, the next time someone tells you to “sleep now while you still can,” remember that it’s one of the many unhelpful advice to expectant parents. Instead, focus on preparing for the reality of sleep disruptions and find solutions that work for you. With the right mindset, support, and a bit of flexibility, expectant and new parents can handle the sleep challenges that come with the territory.
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