A Part of postpartum no one talks about
Bringing a newborn home is a moment filled with hope and excitement. However, as many new parents discover, postpartum night two can feel extraordinarily challenging. During this night, many babies become especially unsettled, leading parents to wonder if something is wrong.
Understanding Postpartum Night Two
You may find that after the first day home, the calm you hoped for seems to vanish overnight. On night two postpartum, your baby might appear restless and demand constant feeding. It’s easy to jump to conclusions, fearing you don’t have enough milk or that something is wrong. However, this phenomenon is not unique to your baby; it’s a natural behavior rooted in biology.
Babies are designed to act this way because that continuous sucking and stimulation play a crucial role in establishing your milk supply for the long term. This behavior is especially common on the second night, when your newborn’s instincts kick in to ensure adequate nutrition in the days to come.
Coping Strategies for Night Two
Skin to Skin Contact:
To navigate this period, skin-to-skin contact is invaluable. Keep your baby close when you’re awake, allowing them to latch freely. This physical closeness not only comforts your baby but also encourages milk production.
If you find yourself utterly exhausted, don’t hesitate to seek help. Let your partner take over skin-to-skin time, which will comfort your baby even if you take a break. When your baby cues to feed, try to latch them on with a big, deep latch and use breast compressions to encourage suckling. Don’t worry about the timing of the feeds; responding to your baby’s needs now is key.
Avoid Using a Pacifier:
While pacifiers can be a helpful tool, it’s wise to hold off using them on night two. Using a pacifier at this early stage might interfere with your long-term milk supply because it replaces the natural stimulation your baby provides. Reserve pacifiers for after feeding is established and when your baby is back to their birth weight.
Looking Towards the Future
Remember that night two is often the hardest. But once it passes, you will likely find a rhythm with your newborn as the days progress. The initial whirlwind will calm, the “wheels will come back on the bus,” and the tempo of life with your baby will become more predictable.
Reach Out for Support
Knowing what to expect and having strategies in place can greatly alleviate the stress of postpartum night two. However, every baby and parent is different, and you might have questions or concerns unique to your situation. If so, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional or lactation consultant. They can provide guidance tailored to your needs.
In navigating the ups and downs of those early days, take comfort in knowing you’re not alone, and this phase will indeed pass, often more quickly than it feels.
If you need more support
I lead a team of Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners around the globe, who share my programs and who I personally mentor.
If you are struggling with your baby or child, you can reach out and we can help. We do in person and virtual feeding assessments. We also offer women’s health services and can help you achieve optimal hormonal health. Our services are often covered through insurance.
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Thank you so much for being a part of our community,
Carrie Bruno RN, IBCLC, MSCP