Gina Johnson
It is recommended that newborns sleep on their backs for the first year of their life. Sleeping on the stomach can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) as it restricts airflow and can cause rebreathing, which is when a baby inhales air that is high in carbon dioxide and low in oxygen. However, once a baby can roll from back to tummy and tummy to back, it is generally considered safe for them to sleep on their stomach, as long as they are unswaddled and on a firm mattress with no loose bedding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safe sleeping position for newborns | On their back |
| Safe sleeping position for babies under one year | On their back |
| Safe sleeping position for babies over one year | On their back, but they can be left to sleep in the position they prefer |
| Safe sleeping position for babies who can roll | On their back, but they can be left to sleep on their stomach if they can roll both ways |
| Safe sleeping position for babies who can't roll | On their back, and they should be returned to this position if they roll onto their stomach |
| Safe sleeping position for babies who are swaddled | On their back, and they should stop being swaddled when they can roll |
| Safe sleeping position for babies who are unswaddled | On their back, but they can sleep on their stomach if they can roll onto it |
| Safe sleeping position for babies who are sleeping on a parent's chest | On their stomach, but only if the parent is awake and alert |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Safe sleeping positions for newborns
The safest sleeping position for newborns is on their back on a flat and solid surface, with no extra bedding or toys. This is because sleeping on the stomach increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and rebreathing. Rebreathing is when a baby inhales air that is lower in oxygen and higher in carbon dioxide, which can cause the baby's blood oxygen levels to drop.
Some babies will be able to roll from back to stomach and back again before they are one year old. Most infants can roll both ways by six months of age. If your baby can easily roll both ways, stomach sleeping is considered safe. At that point, the risk of SIDS drops significantly.
If your baby is rolling to their tummy, for safety reasons, they must not be swaddled. However, if your baby is not yet rolling, swaddling can help to provide your baby with a sense of security and prevent their startle reflex from waking them up during sleep.
If your baby is rolling onto their tummy, you can gently return them to their back. However, this is not necessary if your baby is around six months old and has good head and trunk control.
Swaddling Newborns: Safe Sleep or Unnecessary Risk?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$26.99 $29.99
$32.99 $35.99
Reducing the risk of SIDS
The medical community agrees that the safest position for a newborn to sleep in is on their back. Sleeping on the stomach increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Here are some ways to reduce the risk of SIDS:
Place your baby on their back to sleep
The recommended safe sleeping position for a baby in their first year of life is on their back. Research shows that placing babies flat on their backs on a firm mattress with no loose bedding reduces the risk of SIDS. Even babies with reflux should be placed on their backs to sleep. If your baby rolls onto their side or stomach during sleep, return them to their back until they can comfortably roll both ways on their own.
Use a pacifier
Pacifier use can further reduce the risk of SIDS when paired with back sleeping. Sucking on a pacifier brings the baby's tongue forward, opening the airway. It also prevents the baby from sleeping too deeply, reducing the risk of them stopping breathing. However, do not attach the pacifier to the baby's clothing or crib to avoid choking hazards.
Breastfeed your baby
Breastfed babies have a lower risk of SIDS as they wake up more easily than formula-fed babies. Breastfeeding also provides immune benefits, reducing the risk of respiratory infections.
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Smoking during pregnancy and exposing babies to secondhand smoke increases the risk of SIDS. Parents should avoid smoking during and after pregnancy and ask others not to smoke near the baby or in their presence.
Avoid overbundling
Babies can get overheated if they are wearing too many layers of clothing and bedding. Overheated babies are at a higher risk of SIDS and heat-related death. Dress the baby in clothes suitable for the room temperature and remove their hats when indoors.
Soothing Strategies: Newborn Sleeps Only in Your Arms
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The risks of tummy sleeping
The medical community agrees that putting your baby to sleep on their back is the only safe way to sleep. Sleeping on the stomach increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which is one of the leading causes of death for babies in their first year of life. Research shows a decreased risk of SIDS when babies are placed flat on their backs for sleeping, specifically on a firm mattress with no loose bedding.
Some researchers claim that tummy sleeping can increase the chances of "rebreathing". This is when babies breathe in the air they've exhaled, lowering the oxygen levels in their body and increasing carbon dioxide levels. The chances of rebreathing also increase when babies sleep on a soft surface or have stuffed animals, bedding, or pillows near their faces.
Another danger of belly sleeping is suffocation. If your baby's nose and mouth get blocked, they won’t be able to take in the oxygen they need from the air. This can happen when a baby sleeps on their stomach and the bedding covers their face or they roll over onto something that blocks their breathing.
Sleeping on the tummy can also increase the risk of overheating and blocked airways. It is important to note that the risk of SIDS drops significantly once a baby can roll both ways and has good head and trunk control, usually around 6 months of age.
Co-Sleeping With a Newborn: Is It Safe?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Swaddling to soothe newborns
It is recommended that newborns sleep on their backs for at least the first six months to one year to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Sleeping on the stomach is considered unsafe as it increases the risk of SIDS. Therefore, it is advised to place your baby on their back for every sleep, including naps, during their first year of life.
Swaddling is a traditional technique that involves wrapping a newborn baby snugly in a thin blanket to restrict their arm and leg movement. It is thought to be effective in soothing newborns and promoting sleep. Here are some tips for swaddling to soothe newborns:
- Use a thin blanket: A lightweight and breathable material, such as muslin, is recommended to prevent your baby from overheating.
- Wrap snugly but not too tight: Ensure there is enough space for your baby's legs to move up and out at the hips to allow for natural hip development and prevent hip dysplasia.
- Keep the head and face uncovered: Avoid wrapping your baby higher than their shoulders, and make sure their head and face are not covered by the blanket.
- Place your baby on their back: Always place your swaddled baby on their back to sleep. This is the safest sleeping position, especially when combined with swaddling, as it further reduces the risk of SIDS.
- Stop swaddling when your baby starts rolling: Once your baby starts showing signs of rolling, it is important to stop swaddling for safety reasons. At this stage, your baby should be able to roll onto their tummy and back again, which is considered a critical milestone for safe tummy sleeping.
- Create a safe sleep environment: Ensure your baby's sleep space is free of loose bedding, toys, and other potential hazards. It is recommended to use infant sleep clothing or a wearable blanket instead of loose blankets to keep your baby warm.
Swaddling can be an effective way to soothe newborns and promote sleep, but it should be done correctly and in combination with safe sleep practices to ensure your baby's comfort and safety.
Swaddling: Newborn Sleep Solution or Unnecessary?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$20.99 $28.99
Tips to help newborns sleep on their backs
It is recommended that newborns sleep on their backs for at least the first six months to a year of their lives. Sleeping on the stomach increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and is therefore not recommended. Here are some tips to help newborns sleep on their backs:
Swaddling
Swaddling your newborn can help them feel safe and secure, in addition to keeping them warm. It is important to stop swaddling once your baby can roll over to avoid restricting their movement.
Practice tummy time during the day
You can practice tummy time by placing your baby on their stomach during the day when they are awake. This helps with their development and can make them more comfortable with sleeping on their back at night.
Provide comfort
If your newborn baby struggles to fall asleep on their back, you can try swaddling them to give them a sense of security and prevent their startle reflex from waking them up.
Firm, flat, and waterproof mattress
It is recommended to use a firm, flat, and waterproof mattress for your newborn's crib. This helps to create a safe sleep environment and can make it easier for your baby to sleep on their back.
Keep the crib clear
Keep the crib clear of any loose bedding, toys, or other items that could cover your baby's face and restrict their breathing. A fitted sheet is all you need.
Share your room
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that you share a room with your baby for the first six months of their life. This means putting their bassinet or crib in your room so that you can easily access them during the night.
Consistency
It is important to be consistent with your baby's sleep position. Place them on their back for every sleep, including naps, to create a routine and reduce the risk of SIDS.
Remember, always follow the advice of your healthcare provider regarding your baby's sleep position and safety.
Newborn Won't Sleep in Crib? Try These Tips
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that newborns sleep on their backs for at least the first year of their life. Sleeping on the stomach increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and rebreathing, which can cause a baby's blood oxygen levels to drop.
Some babies are happier sleeping on their stomachs and dislike sleeping on their backs. If your baby is struggling to sleep on their back, you could try swaddling them, as this can give them a sense of security. You can also try using white noise to drown out any startling noises, or giving them a pacifier.
It is recommended that you place your baby on their back at the beginning of the night. If your baby is rolling over, you don't need to turn them back onto their back, but you should ensure that they are sleeping on a firm mattress with no loose bedding or blankets.
