What You Need to Know About Infant Safe Sleeping and Co-Sleeping

Since the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended all babies should be placed on their backs to sleep in 1992, deaths from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome have declined dramatically. But sleep-related deaths from other causes, including suffocation, entrapment and asphyxia, have increased.

Sleep needs for babies vary depending on their age. Even though you may think it will be easier for feedings or to get up in the middle of the night if your baby is co-sleeping with you, the AAP strongly believes in sharing your room and not your bed. Putting your baby in bed with you may raise the risk of strangulation, suffocation, entrapment, and SIDS.

Monica Kharbanda, MD, discusses the potential dangers of co-sleeping, why you should put your baby to sleep on their backs, and the latest recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Learn more about BayCare’s children’s health services.

This podcast is for informational purposes only, and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.  This podcast does not create a physician-patient relationship.  You should always consult your physician or other healthcare professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.  If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your physician or 911 immediately.