The Best Nighttime Breastfeeding Tips

As a new mom, sleep will be... rare. But don’t worry, we have tips for managing late night feedings and getting you a little more rest.

As a breastfeeding mom, it may seem like you’re nursing and pumping all the time. Newborns need to eat frequently around the clock, and healthy full-term babies should eat whenever they are hungry. As a new mom, you’ll want to prepare yourself for the first few months (when “around the clock” is taken quite literally) with feedings necessary throughout the night. But don’t worry; we have tips for managing late night feedings and getting you a little more rest.

Get Breastfeeding Support

As your baby grows, his or her needs will help establish your supply and determine a feeding routine. If you are exclusively breastfeeding, ask for breastfeeding support with late night and early morning feedings. For example, ask your partner to get you water or gently lift your baby out of your arms and put them back to bed when breastfeeding is complete.

If you’re pumping, let your partner or other family member feed baby with previously expressed breast milk to help give you a break for the other feedings. This will give that family member some time to bond with baby and let you catch up on sleep.

Keep Baby in Your Bedroom

For some families, keeping the crib in your bedroom helps cut down on the amount of time it takes you to fall back asleep between feedings.

Stay Comfortable With a Nursing Pillow

Comfort is key for breastfeeding, and it may even make your feeding sessions more efficient. Make sure you find comfortable nursing positions with a cozy chair or rocker, a glass of water, and maybe a nursing stool or maternity and nursing pillow to help. Our pillow can be used through all stages of your pregnancy and breastfeeding journey and is ultra-comfortable when nursing, thanks to a flexible, breathable, and body-hugging design.

Keep Your Nursing Essentials Nearby

Make sure you have everything you could need throughout the night set out or easily accessible. Things to put out include diapers, wipes, towels, your breast pump and a clean kit, a glass of water, your nursing pillow, nursing pads, and anything else to keep you comfortable and clean. Doing this will help prevent you from making unnecessary trips to other rooms or rousing yourself too much while searching for what you need.

How to Survive Breastfeeding at Night

At times, it’s hard not to be frustrated when you have to wake up multiple times each night. But it’s important to keep in mind that it’s only temporary and those late-night feedings are truly special moments that won't last forever. So, when you’re frustrated, breathe deeply and just try to enjoy the amazing bond you’re creating with your little one.