Sleeping next to your baby is the biological norm. Having your baby close provides comfort and makes nighttime feedings easier, helping you get more sleep as a new mom. While some experts raise concerns about bedsharing or co-sleeping due to the potential risks of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and suffocation, research shows that with proper precautions, you can safely share your sleep space with your baby, making your breastfeeding journey more manageable and enjoyable.^1,2 To address these risks, this care guide emphasizes the importance of fostering a safe sleep environment that respects your and your baby’s biological needs, allowing you to enjoy these precious moments without compromising your infant’s well-being.

The “Cuddle Curl”

Bedsharing with your baby naturally promotes the characteristic side-lying breastfeeding position known as the “cuddle curl.” This instinctive breastfeeding position allows your baby to cuddle close to you, creating a safe space for them to eat and sleep. Your arm will be above your baby’s head, preventing movement up the bed into the pillows, and your knees will be tucked under your baby’s feet to keep them from sliding down the bed. Your baby should be positioned on their back on a flat mattress when not actively breastfeeding.

How to Create a Safe Bedsharing or Co-Sleeping Environment

• How to Make your Bed Safer³ 
  • Always place your baby on their back to sleep.
  • Use a firm mattress and avoid soft bedding, pillows, or toys in the sleep area.
  • Make sure there are no small spaces around the edge of your bed where the baby could become trapped.
  • Remove heavy blankets and extra pillows.
  • Do not allow sheets or blankets to cover your baby’s face or head.
  • Consider placing your mattress on the floor. 
  • Never fall asleep with your baby on a sofa, recliner, or chair. 

• Safe Sleep 7 Guidelines⁴
  • Baby is healthy and full-term.
  • Baby is breastfeeding day and night. 
  • No one is smoking in the home or outside.
  • No one has consumed alcohol or medication that can make them sleepy (such as allergy medicines, sleep aids, pain killers, etc.).
  • Baby should not be overdressed or swaddled.
  • Baby should never be left alone on an adult bed.⁵ 
  • Infants born prematurely or with low birth weight should not co-sleep. 

• When Not Bedsharing or Co-sleeping^1,2
  • Keep your baby in your room near your bed. 
  • Consider using a bedside bassinet or co-sleeper.
  • Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet.
  • Place your baby on their back to sleep.
  • Keep loose blankets, pillows, stuffed toys, bumpers and other soft items out of their sleep space. 
  • Stop swaddling once your baby starts making attempts to rollover.

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Sleep for the Breastfed Baby
• Babycare for the Breastfed Baby
• Moms Circle

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References