As a self-employed private practice physical therapist with two beautiful sons, I understand having a new baby is exciting, yet exhausting.​

Breastfeeding can be difficult. Breast pumping can also present its own challenges. On day 6 of my first-born baby’s life, I hadn’t slept for days. I loved watching this incredible new life wiggle around in my laundry basket, but I clearly couldn’t stay awake for 7 days in a row, with only 10-15 minute naps here and there. The sleep I was getting was not nearly enough rest for just haven given birth.

With my second, I was determined to do a better job. I did more research and learned that Board Certified Lactation Specialists highly recommend pumping at least once between 1am and 6am. So, I figured, IF this is when the milk producing hormones are at their highest, I will just set my alarm for 2am, sit on my nursing chair and pump. Every. Night. For at least 6 months. This led to a temporary indentation on my forehead as I leaned forward to rest on the ottoman, pumping, and praying that my babies did not wake. It also gave me time to think… WHEN and HOW are Moms supposed to sleep?