- A Doctor's Guide to Newborn Sleeping Positions (Back is Best!)

- A Doctor's Guide: Why Your Newborn Must Sleep on Their Back -

❗ CRITICAL HEALTH AND SAFETY WARNING: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has a clear and strict recommendation for safe infant sleep: babies should always be placed on their backs for every sleep, including naps. This is the single most effective way to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This guide is a health warning and is not a substitute for advice from your pediatrician.

As a new parent, you are constantly observing your baby's every move. You might notice your newborn favoring a side-sleeping position, or you might have heard old advice that it is a good position for them. However, modern medical science is definitive on this topic. A newborn sleeping on their side is not a safe practice.

This guide will explain the science behind the "Back to Sleep" campaign and what you should do if you find your baby has rolled over. Your baby's safety is the top priority. ✅

🤔 First, Why is Side Sleeping Dangerous for a Newborn?

The main reason side sleeping is considered unsafe is because it is an unstable position. A young infant can easily roll from their side onto their stomach. Stomach sleeping is the position with the highest associated risk of SIDS.

Sleeping on the stomach or side can lead to:

• Increased Risk of Rebreathing: A baby sleeping face-down can rebreathe their own exhaled air, which is low in oxygen.
• Risk of Suffocation: If the sleep surface is soft, their nose and mouth can become blocked.
• Overheating: Stomach sleeping can lead to overheating, which is another risk factor for SIDS.

- But My Baby Seems to Spit Up Less on Their Side!

This is a common and understandable concern. However, the AAP has confirmed that healthy babies are able to turn their heads and clear their airways if they spit up while on their backs. The risk of SIDS from stomach sleeping is far greater than the risk of choking on spit-up while back sleeping.

- What Should I Do If My Baby Rolls Onto Their Side on Their Own?

This is a question that every parent will face. As your baby gets stronger, they will learn to roll over. This is a normal developmental milestone. Here is what the experts recommend:

Once your baby can roll consistently from their back to their tummy and also from their tummy to their back on their own, it is generally safe to let them find their own comfortable sleep position. The key is that they must be able to roll both ways fluently.

However, you must continue to follow all other safe sleep rules:

• Always place them on their back to start the sleep.
• The crib or bassinet must be completely empty. There should be no blankets, pillows, bumpers, or soft toys.
• Use a firm mattress with only a fitted sheet.

⭐ What's the Bottom Line?

The rules for a newborn sleeping on their side are clear. Never place your baby on their side to sleep. Always place them on their back. The cool autumn nights are a great time to ensure your baby is warm in a safe, wearable sleep sack, rather than a loose blanket. By following these simple rules, you are creating the safest possible environment for your little one. 😴