Baby Sleeping on Back?

Q - Is it really that important that my baby sleeps on her back?? She hates to be swaddled and when I put her on her back she flails and screams. As soon as I place her on her tummy she goes to sleep. I’m nervous though because everyone says sleeping on the back is best.

A - Babies have an increased risk of dying of SIDS-Sudden Infant Death Syndrome-when they sleep on their stomachs. This is related to the inability to lift their head completely. Once the baby can easily lift and turn its head from side to side-usually about 3-4 months-the baby can sleep on its stomach. You might try propping her on her side using rolled up towels or receiving blankets-ensuring the rolls are well away from her face-and see if she can sleep in this position. Otherwise it is safer to have her on her back.

- Dr. Linda Ducholke, a mother of two, has been a successful Family Practitioner with Obstetrical privileges for the past 20 years. The main focus and passion of her practice is obstetrics and childcare.