As a new parent we believe it is vitally important to learn safe co-sleeping practices. While most parents don't believe they will co-sleep in western cultures, it is estimated that nearly 80% of parents co-sleep at one point or another. Co-sleeping with your baby can provide many benefits to both you and bub, but it is crucial to do so safely (which is why knowing how in advance is key!). It's important to avoid high risk situations like sleeping with bub on a couch or beanbag as while co-sleeping is a risk factor for SIDS, it's the surface that you co-sleep on that really is the biggest influence on this.
he Safe Sleep 7 are seven basic rules that will help keep your baby safe while co-sleeping. By following these simple guidelines, you can rest assured that your little one is safe and sound while sharing a bed with you, helping you all to get a good night sleep. *Please note, co-sleeping is not safe for all families or babies and should be avoided if your baby was premature, if you are a smoker or if under the influence of drugs or alcohol.* The first rule of the Safe Sleep Seven is to create a safe sleeping environment for your baby. This means making sure that there are no pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals in the bed with them. The only thing in the bed should be you and your baby. If it's cold, make sure you're wearing warm pyjamas so you don't need a blanket all the way up to your chin. The second rule is to never co-sleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair. This can be extremely dangerous as babies can easily roll off of these soft surfaces and onto the floor. Always find a bed even if that means kicking your partner out! The third rule is to always place your baby on their back to sleep. This position is the safest for babies and will help reduce the risk of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Once baby is old enough to roll by themselves, they can of course move on to their belly or side without you worrying. The fourth rule is to use a firm mattress when co-sleeping. A soft mattress can be dangerous for your baby, as it can increase the risk of SIDS. If your mattress is super soft, try popping a yoga mat underneath the blanket where bub will be laying to give them a firm surface. The fifth rule is to avoid co-sleeping if you are a smoker. Babies who are exposed to secondhand smoke have an increased risk of SIDS. This includes sharing with a partner who smokes as well. Bed sharing in a house with smoke simply isn't worth it. The sixth rule is to avoid co-sleeping if you are drinking alcohol or taking medications that could make you drowsy. These substances can put your baby at risk while co-sleeping. Make sure everyone in bed with bub is sober and easy to rouse. The seventh and final rule is to never leave your baby alone in bed with another person. This increases the chance of accidentally rolling on top of your baby, which could lead to suffocation or strangulation. By following these safe co-sleeping practices, you can rest assured that your baby is safe and sound while sharing a bed with you. Keep these guidelines in mind and enjoy all the benefits that co-sleeping has to offer! We believe here that co-sleeping with your baby is like teenagers having sex - rather than telling you not to do it, it's MUCH better to teach you how to do it safely!
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AuthorOur team of Brisbane based pre and postnatal health and wellness professionals love being able to share their top tips about conception, birth and all things bub and motherhood! Archives
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