Why Sleep Deprivation is So Dangerous For Moms
We’ve all pulled the occasional all-nighter when we’ve had a term paper due the next day in college, or we went out to celebrate. New parenting can feel a lot like that fun, chaotic stage of life. Unlike a college student, who can simply turn in and sleep a day away, parenting a baby completely reliant on you for support doesn’t allow for that checking out. But is it really harmful to just suffer through less sleep for an undetermined period of time?
Yes.
Sleep deprivation Leads To Illness
When you’re running on empty in the sleep department, you're immune system is greatly suppressed. How? The white blood cells necessary to go through your body and take care of any viral infections are greatly suppressed. How many new parents do you know who catch every cold that comes around this time of year? Ask them how much sleep they’re getting. The answer is probably not a ton.
When you’re sick, it makes everything harder, including getting up, and getting well, thus perpetuating the cycle.
Concentration is Halted
Many many new parents fall into a zoned out, attention deficit mode when they’re driving. This not only is dangerous for new mothers with babies in tow - it’s especially difficult for new partners who are getting up early and making a sometimes long and difficult (on a good day) commute. Distracted or impaired driving accidents are more common at this time. Even if you’re not asleep, the delay in reaction from your brain’s inability to function and exercise caution as normal can create increased accident risk.
You Don’t Enjoy Your Baby
Your baby is so sweet, cute, and yes - a nighttime partier. but that latter piece might be all you focus on if your brain is revolving around clocking zz’s. You might also not be able to listen to your instincts and determine when your baby needs you, or what he/she might need. This creates a feeling of disappointment in your abilities, and so the cycle continues.
Experts, including Dr. Sears and Dr. Karp, advise dedicating one night for a solid 8-9 hour stretch of sleep to help restock your depleted stores and improve your quality of life. Hiring a postpartum specialist to allow you and partner to get this rest is crucial to getting into your daily groove when the going gets tough. It’s that important!
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