Sleep Awareness Month: #Herstory from Mom and Sleep Coach Allison Egidi
March is Sleep Awareness Month and we want to clear up some misconceptions around sleep when it comes to motherhood. As doctors, we know that sleep is a key part of staying healthy. Most adults need 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night, however, we know that isn’t realistic as a new mom or even mom-to-be. Local mom and sleep coach Allison Egidi recommends a minimum of 4 hours of uninterrupted sleep… which may seem outrageous unless you have had a child of your own. While nighttime feedings are medically necessary at first, some moms find themselves so sleep deprived that it is adversely and continually impacting their mental and physical health. “1 in 5 women will be affected by postpartum depression/anxiety,” Egidi shared, “and getting 4-5 hours of uninterrupted sleep is the most effective and least expensive thing a new mother can do to start feeling better. The research supports that 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep can significantly improve a mom’s mental state and wellbeing.” Egidi knows this as a certified sleep consultant and also as a mom of two girls who learned first-hand the hard way. Here, she tells #HERstory of how her own sleepless nights and struggles as a new mom led her to become a pediatric sleep coach.
What led you to start your sleep coaching business?
I was well-read going into parenthood and had a good plan for managing sleep (so I thought!). Parenthood quickly humbled me and we didn't successfully help my daughter learn to sleep well until she was nearly 2 years old - with the help of a sleep consultant. I wanted to understand why her sleep journey had been so challenging so I dove into the sleep research.
I handled sleep very differently with my second daughter and she was sleeping through the night at 8 weeks.
I couldn't shake the idea that many parents need far more support around sleep than they are able to receive from their pediatrician so after getting my sleep consultant certification, I started working with other families and it's been one of my greatest joys.
What are some messages you want to share about the importance of sleep?
Sleep is critically important to our health. Teaching your baby/child healthy sleep habits is such a gift. It can help them thrive now and can also carry over into their adult lives. But, I want parents to know that every baby is born with a different level of natural sleep talent (similar to athleticism) so don't beat yourself up if your baby isn't doing exactly what the book or online class said they should be doing. Sleep is like a puzzle piece and for some babies, it's a 50 piece puzzle and for others, it's a 100 piece puzzle.
I also want new moms to know that 1 in 5 women will be affected by postpartum depression/anxiety and that getting 4-5 hours of uninterrupted sleep is the most effective and least expensive thing a new mother can do to start feeling better. The research supports that 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep can significantly improve a mom’s mental state and wellbeing. If moms need help figuring out how to make that happen, I have an entire podcast episode where I share my best strategies for making that happen, even when your baby still needs to be fed every few hours during the night! CLICK HERE to listen.
What are some tips you have for moms themselves?
You matter. Your health and wellbeing matters just as much as your baby's health and wellbeing. Accept help, even if it's not your style. Ask for help, even if it's not your style. I love it when a friend asks me to come talk, to hold their baby so they can nap, to make them a salad, to bring them a coffee, etc. Let your village help you and never forget how much you matter.
And, there is no one right way to do anything as it relates to parenting (in my opinion!). When I feel stuck, I'm all about finding an expert to help me, but I always search for an expert who aligns with my beliefs and parenting style so I can move forward with trust and confidence.
In case you need to hear it today, you're doing a great job. You're a great mom.
Doctor’s note:
Here are a few additional issues women face during and after pregnancy as it relates to sleep:
Before baby: Many women have trouble sleeping during pregnancy. This may be because of the many changes their bodies are going through. Levels of estrogen and progesterone increase during pregnancy, which can change sleep patterns. Weight gain also can make the airway swell, leading to snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.)
After baby: Trouble sleeping also is common after giving birth, as your baby adjusts to a regular sleep schedule. Insomnia or sleep problems after birth also may be caused by pain. breastfeeding, stress, and postpartum depression.
If you are experiencing any of these issues, please contact your doctor so that we may be able to help.
