The science of those sleepless nights

The science behind those sleepless nights:

The pineal gland, housed in the center of the brain, establishes and maintains our circadian rhythm via the production of melatonin.

Melatonin levels increase as the evening approaches, signaling to the body that sleep is (or at least should be) imminent. This process works in opposition to the secretion of cortisol by the adrenal glands (just above your kidneys), the hormone that jolts us awake and keeps us on alert throughout the day.

But here’s the thing: the pineal gland develops entirely after birth, therefore meaning your baby is solely reliant on maternally sourced melatonin until 9-12 weeks of age when their own circadian rhythm kicks into gear.

In utero, melatonin is shared via the placenta, and after birth, via the breastmilk.

So if it feels like you’re little one is more of a night owl in those first few months, hang in there mama, this phase will pass.

And here’s a tip if you’re pumping and storing your breastmilk: label your milk ‘am’ or ‘pm’ to give you and your little one the best chance of a good stretch of sleep.