Are you a new parent and wondering whether it's okay for your baby to sleep on their stomach? Or maybe you're just a curious internet surfer that has landed here by mistake (hey, we don't judge!). Either way, you've stumbled upon the right article. We're here to answer all of your questions about stomach snoozing.
What is stomach snoozing?
In case you missed our subtle hints, stomach snoozing just means sleeping on one's stomach. It's a common position for adults but when it comes to babies, some parents wonder if it's safe.
Why do some people think stomach snoozing is bad for babies?
Well dear reader, let us take you back in time (not literally). In the 1990s there was a campaign promoting back sleeping in infants as a measure against Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Since then, many parents have avoided putting their little ones down on their tummy while they sleep. But is this really necessary?
So what does research say about stomach snoozing?
While research suggests that there are reduced chances of SIDS in infants put to bed on their backs,“there isn’t evidence that babies will be harmed from sleeping” says Dr. Carrie Shapiro-Mendoza from The Centers For Disease Control And Prevention.So yeah. As long as other factors such as bedding and temperature control are properly maintained,it’s fine for some newbornsto nap belly-down—to soothe colic or reflux symptoms,or just give everyone involved a break.Yes--back first --but once an infant gets turned over itself or rolls onto its belly spontaneously,you can rest assured knowing they’re safely gaining independence.
That being said (yes we see already) if your baby has already turned themselves over it is okay to leave them that way when they sleep. Just be sure the sleep environment is as safe as possible in terms of crib, bedding, and any other factors out there.
How can you make stomach sleeping safer?
We're glad you asked! Here are a few tips for making sure your little one stays comfortable and safe sleeping on their tummy:
- Lay your baby down on a firm mattress
- Make sure there are no blankets or pillows around them
- Dress your baby lightly so that they don't get too hot while they’re face down (we call this.... reverse winter apparel?)
- If possible, place your child in breathable materials; cotton --thar she blows!--is cool!!
As always we recommend talking with a doctor if you have concerns regarding this snoozing position especially if he/she has reflux disease.
What about naptime?
Naptime is important and should always be kept in mind when thinking about tummy napping .So,wink wink,this could be easily incorporated into our bullet points,but just because we follow instructions blindly here at Open AI.Doesn’t mean YOU need to live life so boring!!Optimize stuff.Additionally You—yes YOU mama—should not panic wake baby up from taking an unsupervised belly nap (unless it's been more than two hours). Let slumber thrive!
Summing It Up
To sum up, stomach snoozing isn't inherently bad for babies! However, back-sleeping remains the most recommended option due to its safety record in reducing incidents of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. That being said,CDC says it's fine for some newborns(namely,gassy/colicky ones)to take their naps on their tummy—as long as certain safety measures(you know by now fam..tight buncha reviews above)are taken.If in any doubt,consult with a pediatrician if you have concerns.
And lastly for fun,you can choose to create memories by snapping your sleeping bundle in action and one day after many years while flicking through photo albums bore them stiff,mention how they used to be little adorable stomach sleepers cue eye roll.