Ashwin Lewis
Cosleeping, or bedsharing, is a common practice among parents and caregivers. It involves sharing a bed or room with a child, and it is often done for bonding, convenience, and cultural reasons. While some parents choose to co-sleep from the time their baby is born, others may transition to co-sleeping when their child is older. The decision to co-sleep can be influenced by various factors, such as cultural norms, the desire for closeness and attachment, and the perceived benefits of improved sleep and comfort for both the child and the caregiver. However, it is important to note that co-sleeping has been associated with an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and other safety concerns, so it is crucial to take necessary precautions and follow safety guidelines when considering this sleeping arrangement.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mattress | Firm, flat surface |
| Bedding | Lightweight, breathable |
| Bed size | Family-sized bed |
| Bed placement | On the floor |
| Bed rails | Not recommended |
| Bed bumper | Inflatable travel bed bumper |
| Bed sharing | With baby only |
| Parent's habits | Sober, non-smoking, drug-free |
| Parent's hair | Tied back |
| Parent's clothing | Tight-fitting pyjamas |
| Parent's mental health | Avoid burning out |
| Parent's sleep position | Cuddle curl |
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What You'll Learn
Safe bedsharing is never guaranteed
If you are breastfeeding, the way you position your body next to your baby is important. You will automatically go into the same position as breastfeeding mothers worldwide, known as the "cuddle curl." Your knees come up, and your arm tucks under your head, pillow, or baby, creating a protected space. This position prevents you from rolling toward your baby, and no one else can roll into the space because your knees and elbows are in the way. If you are formula-feeding, your baby should always sleep alongside you on a separate surface rather than in the bed.
To ensure safe bedsharing, you must be sober, non-smoking, and drug-free (including over-the-counter medications that could cause drowsiness). If you are not, either you or your baby needs to sleep in another bed. It is also important to keep your baby lightly dressed and on their back. Pets are not allowed to share your bed with you if your baby is in the bed, as they could pose a suffocation risk.
Additionally, it is recommended to remove the mattress from the bed frame and place it on the floor. This way, if your baby rolls off the bed, the fall is minimal, and they are unlikely to be seriously hurt. If you are traveling and cannot create a safe bedsharing space, you can use a travel bed bumper, which is an inflatable bumper that can be easily packed and brought along.
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Avoid drugs, alcohol, and smoking
When co-sleeping with your baby, it is important to be mindful of the risks involved and take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your child. One crucial aspect to consider is avoiding the use of drugs, alcohol, and smoking.
Drugs and Medication
It is essential to be free of any drugs, including over-the-counter medications that can cause drowsiness. These substances can impair your judgment, reflexes, and awareness, increasing the risk of accidental injury to your baby. If you are taking any prescription medications, consult your healthcare provider to understand the potential risks and alternatives.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption is another factor to avoid when co-sleeping. Alcohol can impair your motor skills, coordination, and awareness, similar to drugs. It can also disrupt your sleep quality, leading to more frequent awakenings and lighter sleep. This disruption can impact your ability to care for and respond to your baby's needs throughout the night.
Smoking
Whether it is you or a family member who smokes, it is crucial to keep your bedroom smoke-free. Secondhand and third-hand smoke pose serious health risks to your baby, including an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Third-hand smoke refers to the residual nicotine and other chemicals left on indoor surfaces by tobacco smoke, which can be harmful to your baby's health. If family members smoke, request that they do so outside, and keep your bedroom door closed to minimize smoke exposure.
Additionally, when co-sleeping, it is recommended to use a firm, flat surface, such as a mattress on the floor, to reduce the risk of your baby rolling off the bed. This setup minimizes the fall distance and helps prevent serious injuries. It is also important to prioritize your baby's comfort and safety by maintaining a safe sleeping environment, free from soft blankets, pillows, or other items that can cause overheating or suffocation.
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Use a bedside co-sleeper
Using a bedside co-sleeper is a great alternative to sharing a bed with your baby. This option allows you to have easy access to your baby without the risks associated with bed-sharing.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends placing a crib or bassinet beside your bed to lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This way, you can feed, comfort, and care for your baby without compromising their safety. A bedside crib or co-sleeper bassinet attached to your bed can make it easier for you to attend to your baby's needs during the night.
If you're concerned about your baby falling off the bed, consider placing your mattress directly on the floor. This way, if your baby does roll off the bed, the fall is minimal, and there is little chance of them hurting themselves. Alternatively, you can use a single bed mattress on the floor with a trundle bed base or bed slats underneath for airflow. This setup provides a cosy and secure space for your baby while allowing you to cuddle them to sleep and gently roll away.
When using a bedside co-sleeper, it's important to ensure that your bedroom is child-proofed and free from any hazards. Secure furniture and blind cords, and avoid using soft blankets, pillows, or other items that can cause overheating or suffocation. Additionally, if you have pets, it's best to keep them off the bed to prevent them from accidentally covering your baby's face with blankets or posing a suffocation risk.
Using a bedside co-sleeper can be a safe and convenient option for parents who want to be close to their babies during the night while reducing the risks associated with bed-sharing.
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Breastfeed and sleep
Breastfeeding and co-sleeping are natural and convenient ways to meet the needs of your baby. Breastfeeding at night is a vital part of establishing and maintaining a good milk supply, and it ensures that your newborn gets all the milk they need to grow and thrive. It is also a quick and convenient way to get your baby to sleep so you can eat dinner or go out.
Breastfeeding at night is also beneficial for the mother's sleep. Research shows that breastfeeding mothers get more sleep than mixed- and formula-feeding mothers. The hormones produced while breastfeeding help mothers relax and fall back to sleep more quickly. The prolactin levels in breastmilk at night are also higher, which boosts milk supply and helps the baby sleep better.
However, it is important to note that co-sleeping is not recommended by authorities in some countries, such as the US, due to safety concerns. If you choose to co-sleep, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure the safety of your baby. You must be sober, non-smoking, and drug-free, even if your baby is sleeping on the other side of you. If you are not, your baby must sleep in another bed. It is also recommended to place your mattress on the floor to minimize the risk of injury if your baby rolls off the bed.
To facilitate breastfeeding and co-sleeping, you can try wearing a button-up cardigan or sweater to stay warm and easily breastfeed during the night. You can also try "dream feeding," where you give your baby a top-up breastfeed late at night before they are fully awake, which may help them sleep longer. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine with activities like reading or singing can also help your baby sleep better.
Remember, each baby is unique and will develop their own sleep patterns. It is important to trust your intuition, follow safety guidelines, and do what works best for you and your baby.
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Use a travel bed bumper
When co-sleeping, it is important to ensure that your child is safe and does not roll off the bed. A travel bed bumper can be a great solution for this, especially when you are travelling or staying in a hotel.
A travel bed bumper is an inflatable bumper that can be easily packed in a suitcase or the trunk of a car. It can be placed under a sheet on the edge of the bed to prevent your child from rolling off. Some options include the Magic Bumpers, which are made of foam and can be slipped under a sheet, and the SlumberTot air mattress, which has side bumpers to prevent children from rolling off the bed. If you are looking for a more affordable option, a pool noodle can also be placed under the sheet on the edge of the bed to create a barrier.
When using a travel bed bumper, it is important to ensure that it is securely assembled and placed correctly to prevent any gaps that your child could roll into. Additionally, make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions, including any age and weight requirements, to ensure a safe sleeping environment.
While a travel bed bumper can provide a safe sleeping space for your child, it is important to note that there are always risks associated with bed-sharing. It is recommended to consult official safety guidelines and follow safe sleeping practices to minimize any potential hazards.
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Frequently asked questions
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) does not recommend co-sleeping with a baby because it increases the chances of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), suffocation, and strangulation. However, co-sleeping is the norm in many countries, and some studies have shown that these countries have lower rates of SIDS.
Ensure that you and anyone else in the bed are sober, non-smoking, and drug-free. Avoid using waterbeds, soft blankets, pillows, or other things that can cause overheating or suffocation. Use a firm, flat surface for the baby to sleep on. If possible, place the mattress on the floor to minimize the risk of injury if the baby rolls off the bed.
You can start by room-sharing for the first six months to a year of the baby's life, as recommended by the AAP. Then, you can gradually transition to having the baby sleep in their own crib. Some strategies include using a baby carrier, a crib attached to the side of your bed, or a floor bed.
