This is one of a group of emails I wrote to a mom-to-be a few years ago to help her prepare for breastfeeding and caring for her new baby. You can find a full list of the topics they cover on the first one. This one is about safe sleep for Baby. Too many babies don’t survive because their caregivers were not careful enough about their sleep. Let’s work together to change that.
Safe Sleeping
Dear Mom-to-be,
One of the lessons in my nursing studies was all about sleep safety, and there was some great info that I can pass on to you. But first I want to say, always listen to your feelings about your baby’s safety. Mother’s intuition and the Holy Ghost are there to help you take care of your baby’s unique needs. If something doesn’t feel safe, change it.
The safest place for Baby to sleep is in their own bed in their parents’ room. That being said, the safest place to breastfeed in the night is on mom’s bed, and there will be nights when you getting enough sleep will mean keeping them in your bed. So, here are tips for safe sleep wherever sleep happens.
Crib Safety
- Cribs built within the last 10 years are the safest.
- Use a firm mattress that fits snuggly in the crib, with no spaces where baby could get stuck.
- Use tight fitting sheets.
- No pillows, toys, or loose blankets should be in the crib.
- Always lay Baby on their back to sleep.
- A snug swaddle or sleep sack can be used.
- Avoid overheating Baby (they should be comfortable in something similar to what you’re comfortable in).
Bed Sharing
- Both parents should be aware of and respond to Baby’s presence in bed.
- Lay your infant on their back to sleep.
- Use a firm mattress with tight fitting sheets.
- Keep pillows, blankets, etc. away from Baby’s face.
- Avoid overheating Baby – remember your body heat will keep them warm.
- Once Baby can roll, take away furniture or things where baby could potentially get stuck at the side or end of the bed.
There’s a caution to avoid smoking, drugs, and alcohol, as any of those things can impair your ability to care for your baby safely.
If Baby’s not good at nursing while you’re lying down in bed, find a place with good back and head support for you, where you can use pillows to prop up your arm and baby. You need to keep your sleepy self supported.
Day-time Sleep
I’ve taken naps with babies nursing lying on the couch on numerous occasions. Just remember to do what you can to prevent their falling off the couch, like putting your arm around them once their latched on.
Always be close and aware of Baby when they’re napping during the day.
Swaddling baby can be soothing for them and help them sleep. I don’t know how to write swaddling instructions except to say, make it snug but not too tight, and keep the blanky away from their face.
Your Friend, Anne
(Here’s a video of how to safely swaddle a baby.)
Click here for the next email about using a breast pump.
