Contents
- Laying baby on his back, a new fashion?
- Is Laying Baby On His Tummy Really Dangerous?
- Why not lay Baby on his side?
- What to do if Baby spits up on his back?
- What if Baby seems more comfortable on his tummy?
- Why play Baby on the tummy?
- On his back, isn’t his skull in danger of flattening?
- What is the ideal temperature for baby’s room?
- What if Baby rolls over in his bed?
Laying baby on his back, a new fashion?
No, this recommendation is based on numerous studies carried out since 1990. Sleeping on the back has reduced the rate of sudden infant death by 75% in 10 years. Concrete and encouraging results that can still be improved. By this dorsal position, baby has his nose and mouth clear, ideal for breathing well.
Do not forget to remove anything that could bother him in his bed: pillow, sheet, blanket or multiple comforters …
Is Laying Baby On His Tummy Really Dangerous?
We now know that a baby lying on his stomach can crawl in his bed and find himself more easily in bad posture. It also has a harder time shedding excess heat, which is all the more dangerous when it is too hot or has a fever.
There is also a risk of confinement, especially if the bed is soft: with his nose facing the mattress, Baby inhales the air he has just exhaled and it only takes a few breaths to lack oxygen.
Why not lay Baby on his side?
Lateral position is too unstable and Baby may quickly end up on his tummy. Some parents prefer it to supposedly make it easier for their baby to regurgitate, but be aware that regurgitation will wake your little one up to cough.
In addition, laying baby on his side often prompts parents to install baby wedges and other restraints, which is not good for your newborn baby as his movements will be hampered.
Namely
Alternating sleeping on the left side, then the right side, is not a good idea either for his still fragile digestive system.
What to do if Baby spits up on his back?
No worries ! When baby regurgitates, his body triggers a natural reflex that prevents him from inhaling what he spits out. He will then wake up and cough. Note also that, when sleeping on his back, his head relaxes and necessarily leans to one side or the other, which also facilitates the flow of milk. There is therefore no need to be afraid, it is a physiological phenomenon that the baby can handle.
What if Baby seems more comfortable on his tummy?
It’s true, some little ones (especially those with colic) seem more comfortably seated on their stomachs, but there is no question of taking the slightest risk! If the baby shows signs of resistance, try to put him to sleep in his arms and then gently lay him down on his back. If you find him really reluctant to sleep in this position, take advantage of the awakening and play times to put him on his stomach. This will allow him to massage his small abdomen and thus relieve him when he is again on his back.
Why play Baby on the tummy?
By regularly putting Baby on his stomach when awake, you get used to straightening your head and thus strengthening your little neck and arms. Another advantage is that he will know how to react well if he accidentally finds himself on his stomach while sleeping. This also makes it possible to limit the support on his small skull, and therefore to reduce any possible deformation by dint of being on the back.
On his back, isn’t his skull in danger of flattening?
Yes, it is the risk of plagiocephaly as it is called. But it is possible to limit it making baby turn his head to one side or the other when he sleeps. Little trick to catch his eye: you can change the position of his mobile. Also remember to alternate the time of rest in the deckchair and play times on the stomach, so as to limit the pressure on your head and vary the pleasures!
Please note: Anti-plagiocephaly pillows and other over-the-counter gadgets have not been scientifically evaluated and validated at all. The materials they are made of (polystyrene balls, foam, etc.) would even be very dangerous if Baby were to put them in the face. It is therefore better to abstain and not be tempted by non-labeled novelties.
What is the ideal temperature for baby’s room?
A room heated between 18 ° and 20 ° is what your little one needs, without forgetting regular ventilation. In winter, he will be warm in his sleeping bag with, if necessary, an overpyjama. Blankets or sheets are to be avoided, baby could end up under it while moving. In the middle of summer, don’t hesitate to find out, a simple bodysuit may be enough.
What if Baby rolls over in his bed?
It is because he is growing up, we must let him do it. His muscles are starting to build, and he has enough strength to position himself the way he wants. Most babies start to roll over once they have acquired the support of their head. But before he turns one, it is still too early to let our guard down!
Do you want to talk about it between parents? To give your opinion, to bring your testimony? We meet on https://forum.parents.fr.