Ensuring that your baby sleeps on her back is essential for reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). To encourage safe sleep, always place your baby on her back in a crib that meets safety standards, with a firm mattress and no soft bedding, pillows, or stuffed animals. Using a wearable blanket instead of loose blankets can keep her warm without risk of suffocation. If your baby tends to roll over, consider using a sleep sack or a snug-fitting sleeper that helps keep her in position. It’s important to remember that while supervised tummy time is crucial for your baby’s development, sleep should always be on her back.
Question: I know I’m supposed to put my baby on her back when she goes to sleep, but what if she rolls over in the night or spits up?
– Arianne
Answer:
Placing your baby on her back to sleep significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which is the leading cause of death in babies between 1 month and 1 year old. SIDS has been associated with infants sleeping on their stomachs.
As your baby grows older, she may start to roll over during sleep. This is normal and not a cause for concern. Once babies can consistently roll from front to back and back to front on their own, it’s safe to let them sleep in whatever position they prefer. Avoid using positioners, wedges, or other devices marketed to reduce the risk of SIDS, as these can pose their own risks.
Regarding spitting up, sleeping on the back does not increase the risk of choking for healthy infants or most babies with gastroesophageal reflux (GER). If your baby has severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or specific airway issues, consult your doctor for advice on the best sleep position.