Safety of Infant Sleep Positions

Back sleeping is safest for most babies

Parents are understandably concerned about the position in which their baby sleeps, since sleep position has been tied to the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).

Back Sleeping

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) recommend placing infants on their backs to sleep, as this has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of SIDS.

Tummy Sleeping

Sleeping prone (on the stomach) carries the highest risk of SIDS for infants. However, there are three medical conditions in which prone sleeping is recommended. Babies with upper airway malformations, symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux, and premature babies who have respiratory distress may be safer lying prone.

Side Sleeping

Side sleeping is safer than prone sleeping, but carries a higher SIDS risk than back sleeping. Extending the dependent arm out from the body can prevent the baby from turning prone.

Turning

Some babies naturally turn to their side or prone when placed on the back to sleep. Babies who can accomplish this are usually older than the main window for SIDS, which is 2 to 4 months, so parents can leave their babies turned and not worry.

Positioning Devices

Wedges and positioners are available for purchase that claim to keep a baby from turning out of the back sleeping position, but they are not recommended by the AAP.

References

• NICHD: Questions and Answers for Professionals on Infant Sleeping Position and SIDS
• SIDS Horizons: Back to Sleep- What's a Parent to do?