Should my baby sleep on its back or front?

Should my baby sleep on its back or front?

As discussed in creating a safe sleeping environment, it’s much safer for your baby to sleep on her back.


In the past moms used to be advised to lay their babies on their tummies to sleep as it was thought that this prevented babies choking id they spat up as they slept. However, research has suggested there’s a link between sleeping babies on their tummies and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS or crib death). See our video guide to reducing the risk of SIDS.

 

Therefore, the safest position for your baby to sleep in is on her back with her feet near the end of the crib: the feet-to-foot position. Tummy time is still important for your baby’s development and it’s fine for her to spend some time lying on her front as long as you’re there to supervise and make sure she doesn’t fall asleep while she’s on her front.

 

Why not chat to other moms about this, or other topics, by leaving a message on our chat forum. Alternately, if you want to meet other moms in your area with similar age babies, visit our people section to find out what’s happening in your area. If you have any unanswered questions, use our questions page to gain wisdom from other moms or our resident experts for all those pregnancy or baby-related niggles. Have a look at our kit section where we list our favorite baby gear.

 

The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.

Related Articles


Last Modified: 19/06/2007
Register now to get the most out of your gurgle experience, including:
  • Ask or answer parenting queries in our chat forums - or have a good old moan!
  • Receive a personalised week-by-week email about your pregnancy or baby stage
  • Enter great mummy and baby competitions every week
You really should register to reap the gurgle benefits, but don't just take our word for it, Here's what gurgle members say

Related Chat

You'll need to be logged in to post new Comments and Answers or to Chat. Login or Register

Related Video 10

Page 1-4

Keeping your baby cool in hot weather

Keeping your baby cool in hot weather

gurgle's guide to keeping your baby cool in hot weather.
Changing a disposable nappy

Changing a disposable nappy

How to change a disposable diaper.
Page 1-4