The 3am Survival Guide: Getting Through Night Feeds

There is a particular kind of quiet at 3am. The house is asleep, your baby is wide awake and hungry, and you are wondering if you will ever sleep through again. You will. Until then, here is how to make night feeds a little softer.

Set up before you sleep

• A big bottle of water and a one-handed snack within reach
• A dim lamp or night light, so you are not switching on the big light
• Spare nursing pads, nipple balm and a burp cloth
• A spare top for you and a spare sleep suit for baby

Keep it calm and dim

Babies learn the difference between day and night over time. At night, keep lights low, voices soft and nappy changes quick. Save the play and the chatter for daytime.

Look after you, too

• Tag team if you can. A partner can do the settle, the burp or the nappy so you can get back to sleep sooner.
• Nap when it is possible, not just when it is convenient.
• Be kind about screens. A podcast or audiobook can keep you company without the bright scroll.
• Expect night leaks. Longer gaps between feeds overnight often mean more leaking. Wear pads to bed and keep a towel on your side of the bed in the early weeks.

Safe sleep reminder

Feeding in bed when you are exhausted is real life. If you think you might fall asleep, Red Nose Australia has guidance on safer sleep for your baby that is worth reading before those nights arrive.

When it feels like too much

Sleep deprivation is hard on everyone. If you are feeling hopeless, panicky or unable to sleep even when your baby does, please reach out to your GP or the PANDA Helpline on 1300 726 306.

This article is general information, written by mums for mums. It isn't medical advice. If something doesn't feel right, trust that feeling and talk to your GP, midwife or child health nurse.