Sleep and tiredness after having a baby
Coping with sleep deprivation when looking after a baby
Not getting enough sleep is sometimes described as being sleep deprived, or called "sleep deprivation", "sleeplessness" or "sleep inefficiency". It is common for parents of babies and young children to experience sleep deprivation.
The The Lullaby Trust has advice on safer sleeping for both baby and parents. It can seem challenging to follow safer sleep advice when you are very tired but it is important to always follow safe sleeping practices for every sleep, day and night. This will help to keep your baby safe, give you peace of mind, and reduce the chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
You can also talk to your midwife or health visitor, who are experienced in supporting parents with babies and young children, and can speak with you on how you are coping and offer advice and tips to help you.
Contact information for your local maternity service
East and North Hertfordshire (The Lister Hospital): 01438 284 124
West Essex (The Princess Alexandra Hospital): 01279 827 286
South and West Hertfordshire (Watford General Hospital): 01923 217 343
Contact information for your local health visiting service
Hertfordshire health visiting service:
0300 1237572
West Essex health visiting service:
0300 247 0122
For more information, help and support, see below:
Sleep problems - Every Mind Matters - NHS (www.nhs.uk)