What sleep position should you choose for your baby?

Choosing the position in which your baby sleeps is essential for their safety and well-being. What are the recommendations according to your baby’s age? Is it possible for your baby to sleep on their stomach? On their side? What sleep position should you choose for your baby? Let’s take a closer look.

The different sleep positions for babies

To promote your baby’s sleep while ensuring both comfort and safety, some positions are more recommended than others. So, which position should you prioritize when putting your baby to sleep?

Sleeping on the back

Back sleeping is the position unanimously recommended by pediatricians and health authorities for all healthy newborns from birth. This position significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death by making breathing easier and decreasing the risk of suffocation. Your baby lies on their back, with the head slightly turned to one side for added comfort.

This position promotes good oxygenation and reduces the risk of airway obstruction while protecting the baby’s spine and neck. Even for short naps, this position should always be preferred.

Sleeping on the stomach

Sleeping on the stomach used to be common. It is now strongly discouraged for sleep because it greatly increases the risk of sudden infant death. This position presents a suffocation risk if your baby cannot clear their airways. Their ability to breathe properly is reduced, especially if their face is against the mattress.

However, this position can be offered during awake time, under your supervision, to strengthen neck muscles and limit plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome). It should never be used for sleep or naps without supervision.

Sleeping on the side

Side sleeping is also no longer recommended for infants. It was once believed to help digestion and reduce reflux. However, this position is unstable and your baby may easily roll onto their stomach, increasing the risk of suffocation again. It should therefore be reserved for specific medical situations and only with your pediatrician’s approval.

Want to learn more? Feel free to download the May app, where you’ll find plenty of resources to support and guide you throughout your journey as a new parent.

How to reduce risks while your baby sleeps

To promote sleep and ensure your baby’s safety, it is important to choose the right bed, mattress, and follow certain rules regarding bedding and surrounding objects.

Choosing the right bed and mattress

The choice of crib or bed, as well as the mattress, is important for your baby’s safety:

• An appropriate bed: choose a certified crib or sturdy bassinet. The bed must be stable and free of protruding decorative elements.
• A firm and well-fitted mattress: select a mattress that is firm, not too soft or thick, and perfectly fitted to the bed to prevent your baby from slipping between the mattress and the sides. A firm mattress supports the spine and neck while helping them breathe.
• Bed placement: keep your baby in your bedroom but in their own bed for at least the first 6 months to make supervision easier.

Objects and bedding to avoid

To keep your baby safe and avoid any risk of airway obstruction, certain items should be avoided:

• Pillows and comforters: avoid pillows, comforters, and blankets before age 2. They can interfere with breathing and cause overheating.
• Bumper pads and stuffed animals: avoid crib bumpers, large stuffed animals, or anything that could obstruct breathing.
• Loose sheets: use only a fitted sheet without excess fabric that could cover your baby’s face.
• An ill-fitting sleep sack: choose the right-size sleep sack that keeps your baby warm without the risk of sliding inside.
• Useless accessories: do not add wedges, infant positioners, head supports, or any non-recommended accessories.

How to set up your baby’s bedroom

Creating a healthy and soothing sleep environment is essential to support your baby’s development and safety.

Temperature and light

Temperature and light are two key elements for peaceful and safe sleep:

• Recommended temperature: keep the room between 64°F and 68°F. A higher temperature increases the risk of sudden infant death. Air the room daily to ensure good air quality and facilitate breathing.
• Natural light: prioritize natural light for daytime naps. It helps babies distinguish day from night and develop a regular sleep rhythm. At night, darkness promotes falling asleep and melatonin production.
• Night-lights: babies are not afraid of the dark. Even dim light can disrupt sleep and cause nighttime awakenings. A night-light may be useful for feeding or care. If using one, choose a soft light.
• A calming atmosphere: choose soft colors and avoid harsh or halogen lights.

Bed placement in the room

The location of the crib contributes to your baby’s safety and comfort. Place the bed:

• Away from windows and radiators: this avoids temperature changes and drafts.
• Away from noise and pollution sources: avoid placing the bed near doors or busy areas.
• Against a wall: this can reassure your baby and provide a sense of security.
• In an easily accessible spot: so you can reach your baby quickly at night without disturbing their sleep.

Sleep position and swaddling

Swaddling involves wrapping your baby in a blanket or cloth to limit movement. This technique gives babies a feeling of support and security, similar to the sensation experienced in the womb. It can help soothe them and promote falling asleep. Swaddling is generally used during sleep periods or to calm crying. If your baby seems to enjoy it, you can use it several times a day. Some babies, however, do not like being swaddled. In that case, do not insist.

Finally, swaddle only under your supervision, meaning when you are awake and available. To swaddle your baby, place them in the center of a cloth, arms near the face. Fold the left side, tuck it under the right arm, then repeat on the right side. Fold the bottom under the feet and tuck it under the back.

Important precautions: your baby should always be placed on their back, never on their stomach, especially when swaddled. Ensure you can slip a hand between the chest and the fabric and that the legs can bend freely to maintain natural mobility.

Baby sleep: preventing plagiocephaly while keeping your baby safe

Plagiocephaly is a deformation of the skull marked by a flat area on the back or side of the head. There is a link between sleep position and this condition, but rest assured, it is entirely possible to limit this risk without compromising safety.

Alternating positions during awake time

The key to preventing plagiocephaly is encouraging mobility during awake time while respecting safe sleep rules. Here are some tips:

• Regularly change the head’s position while your baby is awake by placing toys on different sides.
• Place your baby on their stomach on a firm surface under supervision. A few minutes several times a day help strengthen muscles.
• Alternate feeding sides so the head doesn’t always rest the same way.
• Carry your baby in your arms or a baby carrier while ensuring free breathing and a clear airway.
• Limit time in equipment such as bouncers, car seats, or swings outside of car trips.
• Avoid accessories such as anti-flat head pillows or crib reducers, which increase suffocation risk.
• Change the orientation of the crib to encourage your baby to look the other way.

When to consult a healthcare professional

In most cases, these measures are enough to prevent or correct mild plagiocephaly. However, consult your pediatrician if:

• The skull deformation worsens or persists.
• Your baby struggles to turn their head or seems to have neck stiffness.
• You notice facial asymmetry.
• Sleep or breathing issues appear.

In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to help restore mobility and skull shape. To conclude, to ensure your baby’s safety and well-being during sleep, it is recommended to have them sleep on their back and use a firm mattress without comforters or pillows. These precautions help reduce risks and promote better sleep.

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Photo credits: Anna_Om | seventyfourimages | photobiloity | Image-Source | marowl This text was translated from French by an artificial intelligence. The information, advice, and sources it contains comply with French standards and may therefore not apply to your situation. Make sure to complement this reading by visiting the May US/UK app and consulting the healthcare professionals who are supporting you.