When Is It Safe for Babies to Sleep on Their Stomach?
As a new parent, you might find yourself constantly checking on your baby, especially when it comes to their sleep position. One of the most important pieces of advice you’ll receive is about the safest sleep position for your little one. You may wonder if it’s okay for babies to sleep on their stomachs and what to do if they end up in that position. Here’s what you need to know to ensure your baby is sleeping safely.
Is It Okay for Babies to Sleep on Their Stomach?
The short answer is no, it’s not safe for babies to sleep on their stomachs, especially in their first year of life. Sleeping on the stomach can reduce the amount of oxygen baby gets and increase the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). According to the CDC, in 2020, approximately 1,389 babies died from SIDS. One of the primary concerns with stomach sleeping is rebreathing, where the baby inhales exhaled air that is low in oxygen and high in carbon dioxide. This can cause a dangerous drop in oxygen levels in the blood.
Rebreathing is more likely to occur when a baby’s face is close to a mattress or other soft surface or if something covers their face, such as a blanket, pillow, or even a stuffed animal. Soft, adjustable mattresses, like those made from memory foam, can also increase the risk of rebreathing. Therefore, it’s crucial to place babies on their backs for sleep, a practice that the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends for at least the first year of life.
Why Back Sleeping is Safer
The “Back to Sleep” campaign, now called “Safe to Sleep,” was launched by the National Institutes of Health in 1994 to promote back sleeping as the safest position for infants. Since the campaign began, SIDS-related deaths have decreased significantly.
Parents might worry that placing a baby on their back could increase the risk of choking, but this is a myth. Babies have a natural gag reflex that helps protect their airways and prevent choking. Even babies with gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) are safer sleeping on their backs.
Concerns About Flat Head Syndrome
Another concern with back sleeping is the possibility of developing plagiocephaly, or flat head syndrome. While it’s true that babies can develop flat spots on their heads if they spend too much time lying in the same position, this condition is not dangerous and usually resolves on its own as the baby grows, spends more time sitting up, and enjoys tummy time during the day.
To prevent plagiocephaly, you can limit the time your baby spends in car seats, swings, and bouncy chairs. If your baby seems to favor one side of their head or tilts it to one side, check with your pediatrician to rule out torticollis, a condition where the neck muscles are tighter on one side, which can contribute to flat spots on the head.
When Can Babies Sleep on Their Stomach?
Babies can start sleeping on their stomachs once they are able to roll over on their own, which usually happens around 6 months of age. At this point, they typically have good head and trunk control and can roll back to a safer position if necessary. However, even when babies can roll over, it’s still recommended to place them on their back to sleep and let them choose their position if they roll during the night.
What to Do If Baby Rolls onto Their Stomach While Sleeping
If your baby is younger than 6 months and rolls onto their stomach during sleep, gently roll them back onto their back. If your baby is older and has good head and trunk control, it’s generally safe to let them stay in the position they rolled into, but you can still turn them back if it gives you peace of mind.
Here are some tips to ensure your baby’s safety while sleeping:
- Swaddle Safely: Swaddling can help keep your baby on their back, but remember to stop swaddling once your baby shows signs of trying to roll over.
- Keep the Crib Clear: Ensure the crib is free from toys, blankets, and pillows that could pose a suffocation risk.
- Promote Tummy Time: Give your baby plenty of supervised tummy time during the day to strengthen their muscles and encourage rolling.
- Use a Firm Mattress: Ensure that your baby’s crib mattress is firm and meets current safety standards.
- Avoid Sleep Positioners: Wedges, pillows, and other devices marketed to keep babies in place can be dangerous and should not be used.
Final Thoughts
Following safe sleep practices is the best way to protect your baby and establish healthy sleep habits. Always place your baby on their back to sleep and ensure their sleep environment is safe and free from hazards. If you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s sleep, don’t hesitate to consult your pediatrician.