In a society that expects mothers to immediately return to their pre-baby lives, a sleep-deprived co-sleeping, breastfeeding mother has to face some uncomfortable choices to make for her health, family and career.   When I first became pregnant I had already decided I was going to co-sleep, exclusively breastfeed and be 100% responsive to our baby.   I knew I'd be tired but I figured it was only for the short term. Besides, everyone knows being a mum is exhausting - it's just part of the job right?   It was only when I found myself struggling to contain my anger that I realised the lack of sleep had caught up with me and I wasn't coping.   Today on Raising Healthy Mothers I'm going to address a question that often comes up in the co-sleeping, anti-sleep training, extended breastfeeding world - and give a viewpoint on it that isn't often voiced and may even be unpopular.   "We can do what we can by being activists and lobbying for change and discussing equity and fairness with our partners, but it doesn't help right now, right in this minute."   In the episode you'll learn... The 2 common reasons given as to why mums feel exhausted so often - and why they're not particularly helpful The 5 areas of your life to optimise to help improve your sleep The 2 things you might need to compromise on in this season of your life (these may be unpopular!) Ultimately if we accept that it's only for a few years, that it's worth it to parent the way feels instinctive, then you're accepting that you will need to compromise something, whether that's your career, money or your health and wellbeing - short term and long term.   It's not an easy choice - and I think this will be an uncomfortable truth for many.   Resources and links: Sensate  or use code TDC20 at https://buy.getsensate.com/hero-story/ (affiliate link) Other episodes you'll enjoy: 5 Steps to Better Sleep {S2E3} 6 Essential Blood Tests for Exhausted Mums {S4E12} 3 Ways to Boost Energy and Feel Less Exhausted as a Mum {S4E1} Connect with me:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tashadcruz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tashadcruznutrition Website: https://tashadcruz.com/podcast Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating on Apple Podcast   Want more energy and motivation? To get yourself on the way to springing out of bed in the mornings, download my free guide: Ten Things You're Doing Everyday to Sabotage Your Energy. #raisinghealthymothers DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on tashadcruz.com is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you may have heard on the podcast or on the website. I may earn commission on shopping links to external sites, e.g. Amazon. This doesn't change the price you pay but gives me a small commission which goes back into keeping the podcast running.