Sleep 'is not a luxury' for new mums

Mothers have been urged to make getting enough sleep a priority for their own sake as well as that of their children.

Even new mothers have been reminded sleep is a medical necessity - rather than a luxury - EmpowHer reports, with women urged to split night baby care.

The women's portal reminds readers humans need 8.4 hours sleep a night to function properly and advises against doing household chores in the night hours.

"If you're not needed to be on duty with a baby at night, take full advantage," said Dr Shoshana Bennett, the author of Postpartum Depression for Dummies.

She advises against watching TV or doing other "relaxing" activities late at night, urging women to do them during the day or in the early evening.

Women can also invest in a Tempur mattress to relieve their aching joints after a long day of childcare.

In October 2006, a US study revealed 54 per cent of US mothers believe they are sleep deprived.

Classic Bed Company is the UK's premier bed store for ultimate comfort and luxury offering Tempur, Vi Spring, Willis Gambier, French sleigh beds and contemporary beds online.