Sleep

Sleep is absolutely vital for the body and brain to function properly, but sleep disruption is almost universal in the perinatal period. This can have a huge impact on parenting and on mental health. 

In this episode we talk to Dr Chiara Petrosellini about the complicated relationship between sleep and perinatal mental health. Tune in to hear about the science of sleep, the specific challenges in the perinatal period, and evidence-based strategies for improving sleep during this crucial time. 

Recommended resources:

• The Sleep Foundation
• BMJ visual summary on optimising sleep for night shifts
• Maternal sleeping problems before and after childbirth: a systematic review (open access paper)

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health difficulties, please know that there is lots of help available. You can contact your primary care provider in the first instance, or if you are based in the UK the NHS perinatal mental health website will help you to find support in your local area.