When your baby sleeps better, you feel less exhausted—and that matters. Research shows that babies who fall asleep late or wake for long stretches during the night have parents who struggle more with postpartum fatigue and recovery. Your exhaustion is directly connected to your baby's sleep habits, which means helping your baby develop better sleep patterns (like an earlier bedtime) can genuinely improve your own energy and wellbeing after birth. Additionally, where your baby sleeps affects your mental health differently for each parent—some feel better with baby nearby, others feel worse, and some notice no difference. The bottom line? Choose a sleep arrangement that feels right for you and helps you get rest. Managing your own stress and getting support matters too, especially if you're dealing with postpartum depression. Talk to your doctor about what arrangement supports your recovery best.