Sleeping Post-Op Guide

[Lisa]

Sleeping Post-Op:

What has happened? Suddenly your little angel that was sleeping in 5-6 hour increments or even through the entire night is now waking every hour crying, needing consoling. Here is some advice and tips from post-op mothers who have been there, done that.

Remember that although your baby doesn’t seem to be in pain, they have just been through a very serious surgery. They have been poked and prodded at all hours of the day and night, there was beeping, loud voices, they couldn’t see for days, their head feels weird, and the only thing consistent that got them thru it was YOU.

The majority of post-op babies do not like laying flat on their backs. We are assuming it causes pressure/pain. Even during diaper changes/bathing it is helpful to incline their little heads.

Co-sleeping: Some mothers have had great success sleeping with their post-op baby in a regular bed, and propping them up with pillows all around so that they are in an incline position to sleep. Mom is right there to console those midnight cries instantly, and reassure the baby that everything is ok.

Propping crib mattress- You can prop the crib mattress up with a wedge/book of some sort. This will create an incline as well and may help your little one sleep better.

Swing/bouncy seat sleeping- Some babies find great comfort in sleeping in their swings and bouncy seats. Placed beside your bed, still has the baby very close for comfort.

Most babies return to their normal sleep patterns within 4-6 weeks post op.

[Kaydub82]

Great info! Thanks. When can I submerged his staples? To wash them that is....

[kalimom6]

I am patiently waiting for his sleep to go back to normal. We are 5 weeks post op today. It's getting better, but, MAN, does he fight sleep. This is one tired momma!

[krisapooh]

We are two weeks post op tomorrow. Mackenzie is starting to sleep back in her crib in half hour/hour increments. We bought a wedge and that has helped a little bit. Hoping she returns to her normal sleeping routine (bed at 10 and sleeping through the night) in her own crib. I love snuggling with her but co-sleeping scares me.