Is Sleeping With Your Baby Safe?

Co-Sleeping and SIDS: What Every Parent Should Know 

Getting your baby to sleep can be one of the most challenging tasks for new parents. Many parents wonder if it’s okay to let their baby sleep in their bed, especially when the baby wakes up frequently during the night. While it might seem easier and more comforting to co-sleep with your little one, there are important safety concerns to consider. So, is sleeping with your baby as dangerous as doctors say? And how can you ensure your baby sleeps safely on their own? Let’s take a closer look at the facts.

The Debate Around Bed-Sharing: What the Experts Say

Bed-sharing, or sleeping with your baby in the same bed, is common in many cultures. However, in the United States, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly advises against it, citing concerns about the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related deaths. According to the AAP, the safest way for your baby to sleep is on a firm, flat surface in their crib or bassinet, placed in the same room as the parents (a practice called room-sharing, but not bed-sharing).

Not All Experts Agree

However, some studies suggest that the risk of bed-sharing might not be as high for every family. One study analyzed the data and found that for babies older than 3 months, the risk of SIDS associated with bed-sharing may be minimal in the absence of other risk factors like smoking or alcohol use. The risk remains higher for newborns and babies younger than 3 months, and experts generally recommend avoiding bed-sharing during this time.

Factors That Increase the Risk of Bed-Sharing

For some families, the risk of SIDS can be low to begin with, and bed-sharing may feel like a manageable option. But the risk can significantly increase if certain factors are involved, such as:

• Smoking: Secondhand smoke has been linked to a higher risk of SIDS. Parents who smoke should never bed-share with their baby.
• Alcohol or Drug Use: Parents who are intoxicated or use drugs are at a much higher risk of accidentally rolling over onto their baby or being less aware of their baby’s position in bed.
• Premature Birth or Low Birth Weight: Babies who were born prematurely or who have a low birth weight may have a higher risk of SIDS, which is amplified by the practice of bed-sharing.
• Sleep Environment Hazards: Soft mattresses, loose bedding, or pillows can all pose suffocation risks to an infant.

If any of these factors are present in your home, the recommended guidelines for safe sleep are even more important to follow. This might mean putting your baby in their crib or bassinet to sleep, even if bed-sharing is tempting for convenience or comfort.

Safe Sleep Practices for Your Baby

Regardless of whether you choose to co-sleep or not, there are several guidelines to ensure that your baby sleeps safely:

1. Place Baby on Their Back: Always lay your baby down on their back to sleep. This reduces the risk of SIDS by up to 50%.
2. Firm Sleep Surface: Ensure your baby sleeps on a firm mattress without any soft bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals that could obstruct their breathing.
3. Keep Baby's Sleep Area Free of Hazards: Don't place objects in your baby's crib that could pose a suffocation hazard, such as blankets, toys, or bumper pads. Make sure the crib is free of cords, ties, and anything that could wrap around your baby’s neck.
4. Room-Sharing Without Bed-Sharing: While bed-sharing is not recommended, room-sharing can be a safer alternative. Keep your baby’s crib, bassinet, or play yard in your room, ideally within arm’s reach for nighttime feedings and comforting.
5. Avoid Overheating: Dress your baby in light layers appropriate for the room temperature, and avoid heavy blankets or swaddling that could cause them to overheat. Overheating is another risk factor for SIDS.
6. Pacifier Use: Offering a pacifier at nap time or bedtime can reduce the risk of SIDS. However, don’t force the pacifier if your baby doesn’t want it, and don’t worry if it falls out during sleep.
7. Breastfeeding: Breastfed babies tend to have a lower risk of SIDS, as breastfeeding promotes lighter sleep for both mother and baby. Consider breastfeeding your baby if possible, particularly during the first few months.

How to Safely Put Your Baby Back to Bed

If your baby falls asleep in your arms or on a couch, gently move them to their crib as soon as possible. Here’s how to safely put your baby back to bed:

1. Create a Calming Environment: Keep the lights dim, and avoid loud noises or distractions that could wake your baby. A calm, quiet environment can help signal your baby that it’s time to sleep.
2. Lay Baby Down on Their Back: Always place your baby on their back when transferring them to their crib. Make sure the sleep surface is firm and clear of pillows or blankets.
3. Use a Swaddle if Needed: If your baby is fussy, gently swaddle them in a light blanket. However, stop swaddling once they begin trying to roll over.
4. Avoid Prolonged Sleep in Sitting Devices: Never leave your baby to sleep in car seats, bouncy chairs, or other sitting devices. These are not safe sleep environments and can increase the risk of suffocation or lead to positional asphyxia.
5. Check Baby for Comfort: Ensure your baby isn’t too hot or cold, and adjust their clothing or sleepwear accordingly.

Conclusion: Better Safe Than Sorry

While the debate about bed-sharing is ongoing and some studies suggest that the risk is only sometimes as significant as once thought, the consensus among experts remains clear: the safest option for your baby is to follow the recommended sleep guidelines.
Until your baby is older, it’s better to be safe than sorry. While the temptation to co-sleep may be strong, following the AAP’s guidelines for safe sleep—room-sharing without bed-sharing, a firm mattress, and a clear crib—will help reduce the risks associated with sleep-related accidents, such as SIDS.

Safe Sleep is Sound Sleep For You and Your Baby

If you have any concerns about your baby's sleep habits or safety, consult your pediatrician. They can provide you with personalized advice based on your baby's specific needs and your family situation.
At Gabrielson Clinic for Women, we’re here to help you navigate this challenging but rewarding time. Contact us for guidance, support, and resources to help you and your baby sleep safely. Call 515-532-9340 to speak with our on-call OB nurse, or learn more about our obstetrics services. Your health and well-being are our top priorities!