Did You Know Breastfeeding Parents Get More Sleep Than Formula Feeding Parents?

As any new parent knows, sleep is precious and often in short supply during those early months (and years!). But here’s a fun fact you might not know: breastfeeding parents actually get more sleep than those who formula feed. Yes, you read that right! Studies have shown that breastfeeding parents get an average of 45 extra minutes of sleep each nightcompared to formula-feeding parents. While it might not sound like much, even 30 minutes of extra sleep can have a huge impact on your mood, energy levels, and overall well-being (Down et al., 2007).

How Does Breastfeeding Help Parents Sleep More?

At first glance, it might seem counterintuitive—after all, breastfed babies tend to wake up more frequently to feed during the night. However, recent research sheds light on why breastfeeding can actually help parents get more rest.

1. Easier to Settle Back to Sleep: Breastfed babies may wake up more often, but moms (or parents) can typically settle them back to sleep faster than with formula-fed babies. The act of nursing releases soothing hormones like oxytocin in the parent’s body, making it easier to relax and fall back asleep after a night feeding. So, while you may be waking up more often, the time it takes to settle back down is much quicker (Dorheim et al., 2009).

2. No Need to Get Out of Bed: One of the biggest perks of breastfeeding during the night is that you can nurse your baby without even getting out of bed. This means less disruption to your sleep cycle since you don’t have to prepare bottles, get up, or move to a different room. Simply sit up or lie down, nurse your baby, and once they’re finished, you can put them back in their crib. The convenience of night nursing helps you get back to sleep faster and minimizes sleep interruptions (Kendall-Tackett et al., 2011).

3. Breastfeeding Helps Parents Feel Less Tired: It’s true—breastfeeding parents report feeling less tired overall compared to formula- or mixed-feeding parents. Even though breastfeeding might require more night wakings, the quick ease of breastfeeding helps mitigate some of the physical and emotional toll that sleep deprivation can have. Plus, breastfeeding helps with bonding, which can lead to more emotional satisfaction and fewer feelings of exhaustion.

The Benefits of Extra Sleep for Parents

While an extra 45 minutes of sleep might not seem like a game-changer, the benefits are real. Even a small increase in sleep can make a difference in your mental and physical health. Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can affect mood, cognitive function, and overall health. Missing out on sleep for extended periods can increase the risk of postpartum depression, stress, and irritability. In fact, moms who exclusively breastfeed report feeling less tired and less likely to experience depression than their formula-feeding counterparts (Down et al., 2007). So, that extra sleep could play a role in not just your energy but also your emotional well-being!

The Bottom Line: Breastfeeding Helps You Rest, Too

So, if you’re a breastfeeding parent, take comfort in knowing that you’re not only providing amazing benefits to your baby, but you’re also helping yourself get a little more rest. Breastfeeding might be challenging at times, but it’s also a wonderful way to bond with your baby while sneaking in some extra shut-eye.

In the whirlwind of new parenthood, getting as much sleep as you can is vital. And while the idea of frequent nighttime feedings may seem daunting, the research shows that breastfeeding can actually help you get more sleep—and feel better in the process!