Back to Sleep: Vital Advice for Babies Under One
Parents and guardians are advised to keep babies under one year old on their backs during sleep to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This advice, first promoted in the 1990s, has led to a significant drop in SIDS deaths. However, tummy sleeping is still a common practice among some parents who may not be aware of the risks.
Babies can begin sleeping on their tummies once they've mastered rolling over in both directions. Until then, it's crucial to place them on their backs to sleep. This position reduces the risk of SIDS, which has been dramatically lowered since the Back to Sleep campaign in the 1990s. Tummy sleeping can increase the risk of overheating, suffocation, and choking due to spit-up. To help babies feel secure while sleeping on their backs, parents can use swaddling, white noise, and pacifiers. Tummy time, when babies are awake and supervised, helps prevent flat head syndrome, which can occur from spending too much time on their backs.
Partnering with medical providers can offer support and advice on infant care, including sleep and feeding concerns. It's normal to feel exhausted during this phase, but remember, it will pass as the baby grows and develops. Always prioritize safety when putting your baby to sleep, and follow the advice of medical professionals to minimize risks.
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