I was very committed to breastfeeding my babies and I was very committed to getting some sleep! Many moms wonder if it’s possible to successfully sleep train a breastfed baby. The good news? Yes, you absolutely can breastfeed and sleep train your baby! I’ll guide you through the process with gentle, practical steps.
Understanding the Balance Between Breastfeeding and Sleep Training
Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby, providing not only essential nutrients but also a comforting bond. However, sometimes babies depend on nursing to fall asleep. It is a calming and easy way to get a baby to sleep but when a baby has a pattern of waking between sleep cycles to nurse, it shows that they associate falling asleep with breastfeeding (kind of like how adults associate falling asleep with lying down in bed with our head on a pillow). Sleep training can help your little one develop healthy sleep habits, ensuring that both you and your baby get the rest you need.
Some parents worry that sleep training might interfere with breastfeeding, especially if their baby is used to nursing to sleep. However, with a gentle and flexible approach, you can successfully integrate both into your routine. The key is to have a plan that respects your baby’s needs while gradually helping them learn to sleep independently.
Step 1: Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine
One of the most important aspects of sleep training is consistency. Start by establishing a bedtime routine that signals to your baby that it’s time to wind down. This might include a warm bath, a final breastfeeding session and books.
If your baby typically nurses to sleep, gradually shift the feeding earlier in the routine, rather than having it as the last step. This helps your baby learn that nursing is not the only way to fall asleep, making the transition to independent sleep easier.
Step 2: Introduce Sleep Training Gradually
I recommend formal sleep training for babies six months and older. If you want your baby to sleep well at this age, you will need to focus on helping your baby fall asleep without nursing. You have to focus on this at bedtime first because bedtime is the foundation for all sleep skills.
Step 3: Maintain Nighttime Feedings as Needed
Sleep training doesn’t mean you have to eliminate all night feedings right away. I often keep one overnight feeding for babies between six and eight months. I’ll build more than one overnight feeding into the plan if parents choose. I discuss exactly how to do this without confusing the baby in my consultations.
If you are going to feed your baby at night, make sure to keep the environment as calm and quiet as possible. Avoid turning on bright lights or engaging in stimulating activities. This will help signal to your baby that it’s still time to sleep.
Step 4: Listen to Your Baby’s Cues
When it comes to breastfeeding and sleep training, understanding and responding to your baby’s cues is crucial. By six months, many babies are developmentally ready to start the process of dropping nighttime feedings, but it’s important to approach this transition gently and in tune with your baby’s needs. To successfully drop night feedings, it’s essential that your baby is receiving enough nutrition and getting full feedings throughout the day.
Step 5: Seek Support When Needed
Balancing breastfeeding and sleep training can be challenging, and it’s okay to seek support when you need it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, I’m here to help. Check out my Consultation Packages!
You can breastfeed and sleep train your baby! These two things are not mutually exclusive. With patience and consistency, you can help your baby develop healthy sleep habits while continuing to breastfeed. Trust yourself (and me!), listen to your baby’s needs, and remember that every small step forward is a victory.