Postpartum Rest Isn’t Lazy—It’s Medicine (and Science Says So)
Lauren Eison
If you’ve ever been told to “sleep when the baby sleeps,” you’ve probably rolled your eyes so hard you gave yourself a headache. Because sure—who wouldn’t love a nap between diaper changes, feeding sessions, and Googling “is cluster feeding normal??” (It is. You’re doing great.)
But here’s the truth: rest isn’t lazy. It’s not indulgent. It’s not “extra.” It’s healing. And science totally agrees with you taking that nap, mama.
The Science of Rest (a.k.a. Why Your Body Deserves Some TLC)
After birth, your body has just done one of the most intense marathons imaginable—except instead of a medal, you got a newborn and an upside-down sleep schedule.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the postpartum period involves massive hormonal shifts, tissue healing, and blood volume changes. Your body is literally regenerating while you’re also caring for a human who thinks day and night are social constructs.
Research in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing shows that postpartum fatigue can directly impact physical recovery, emotional wellbeing, and even bonding with your baby. Translation: you need rest to heal, connect, and function.
Why “Pushing Through” Doesn’t Work
Modern motherhood often glamorizes “doing it all.” But sleep deprivation isn’t a badge of honor—it’s a fast track to burnout. Studies show that parents who get less than 5 hours of sleep per night experience higher levels of anxiety, depression, and even slower wound healing. Trust me when I saw with firsthand experience, it isn’t pretty.
(So no, you’re not “weak” if you can’t fold laundry on 3 hours of sleep. You’re human.)
👶 How a Postpartum Doula or Night Nanny Can Help
This is where your postpartum village steps in—especially your Postpartum Doula, Night Nanny, or Newborn Care Specialist (this is my time to shine).
These trained professionals aren’t just baby whisperers—they’re sleep advocates, parent supporters, and sanity savers. Here’s how they make rest possible:
Night coverage: While you sleep, your Night Nanny handles feedings, diaper changes, and soothing. You wake up feeling (mostly) human again.
Daytime recovery: Your Postpartum Doula supports meals, baby care, and emotional check-ins—so you can shower, nap, or cry-laugh over cold coffee without guilt.
Gentle education: They help you learn your baby’s cues, sleep rhythms, and feeding patterns, giving you confidence and time back in your day.
Research from The Journal of Perinatal Education found that postpartum support—both physical and emotional—can lower the risk of postpartum depression and improve maternal satisfaction. Help isn’t luxury, it’s medicine.
Rest Looks Different for Everyone
Maybe your rest looks like a 20-minute nap. Maybe it’s a long shower, sitting outside with your coffee, or scrolling TikTok with a sleeping baby on your chest. However you recharge—it counts.
The Harmony Takeaway
At Harmony Baby Concierge, we believe that postpartum rest is one of the most essential (and underrated) parts of recovery. Our Newborn Care Specialists, Doulas, and Night Nannies are here to help families find balance, rest, and yes—a little more harmony—in those early weeks.
Because when moms are cared for, families thrive.
Ready to rest without guilt?
Let’s build your support plan together.
