Night feeds are a common reality for many new parents. While they are essential for your baby’s growth and development, they can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling exhausted. At Ardo Medical, we understand the challenges of this period and are dedicated to providing solutions that support both you and your baby.
Understanding Night Feeds
Newborns have tiny tummies and require frequent feeding, even during the night. As they grow, they gradually need fewer night feeds. However, this transition can take time, and every baby is different.
Night feeds can feel relentless, but they play a crucial role in supporting both milk supply and your baby’s development. During the night, your body produces more prolactin which is the hormone responsible for milk production, making those early-morning feeds especially effective for maintaining supply.
Even more impressively, breast milk at night contains higher levels of melatonin, a natural sleep hormone that helps calm your baby and promote longer stretches of rest. Since newborns can’t produce melatonin on their own just yet, your milk helps guide them into a more settled sleep and gradually supports the development of their own sleep-wake rhythm. Here are some strategies to help you navigate night feeds and establish a more restful routine:
Strategies for Smoother Night Feeds
- Prepare for the night: Before going to bed, have everything you need within easy reach. This might include nappies, wipes, a change of clothes, and your feeding supplies including for you – water is paramount when breastfeeding! Ardo Medical offers a range of breast milk storage solutions, including Ardo Breast Milk Storage Bags and Ardo Breast Milk Storage Bottles, designed for safe and convenient storage of expressed breast milk, perfect for late night feeds.
- Keep baby close: Keeping your baby in your room for the first six months can make night feeds much easier. Having them close helps you spot early signs of hunger, so you can feed before they fully wake — making it more likely they’ll settle back to sleep quickly (and you can too).
- Comfort is key: Finding a comfortable feeding position can make all the difference during night feeds. Side-lying with your baby facing you, making sure their nose in line with your nipple, is a great option. It allows for a more relaxed feed while helping your baby stay sleepy, making it easier for both of you to drift back to sleep afterward.
- Minimise stimulation: Keep the lights dim and avoid unnecessary talking or interaction during night feeds. This helps your baby understand that it’s still nighttime and encourages them to go back to sleep more easily.
- Share the responsibility: Breastfeeding can sometimes feel like it’s all on you, especially in the middle of the night — but your partner can play a key role in supporting you during those feeds. They might help by settling the baby, bringing them to you (particularly helpful if you’re recovering from a C-section), changing nappies, or simply making sure you’re comfortable and have what you need close by.
- Consider a portable breast pump: Expressing milk can make night feeds far more manageable by giving your partner the chance to step in and support. Whether they take over in the evening or early morning, having a predictable window to rest can make a big difference — while also offering valuable bonding time for them and your baby. For breastfeeding mothers who express, a portable breast pump can be a real game-changer. The Alyssa Double Electric and Calypso Double Plus breast pumps are designed for comfort, and convenience, making it easy to express milk anytime, even during those middle-of-the-night moments. Their portability means you can pump wherever you’re most comfortable, helping to maintain your milk supply with minimal disruption.
- Safe breast milk storage: If you’re pumping, proper storage is vital. Ardo Medical offers breast milk storage bags and bottles that help you safely store and organise your supply. Remember the 666 rule: 6 hours at room temperature, 6 days in the fridge, and 6 months in the freezer.
Ardo Medical Products to Support Your Breastfeeding Journey
Ardo Medical provides a range of high-quality products to support you through your breastfeeding journey, including:
- Breast pumps: Our efficient and comfortable breast pumps, including the Alyssa Double Electric Breast Pump and Calypso Double Plus, help you express milk effectively.
- Breast milk storage: Our breast milk storage bags and breast milk storage bottles ensure safe and convenient storage of your expressed milk.
Establishing a Routine
As your baby gets older, you can gradually work towards establishing a more consistent sleep routine. This might involve gentle sleep training techniques but always prioritise your baby’s needs and consult with a health care professional if you have any concerns.
Navigating night feeds can be challenging, but with the right strategies and support, you can establish a routine that works for both you and your baby. Ardo Medical is here to support you every step of the way.
