When a newborn comes home with the family for the first time, there is a period when everyone is trying to adjust to the new life around them. One of the most important things that needs calibration is the sleep cycle of both baby and new parents. Sleep is really important for babies and I always ensure that my baby is in a safe sleeping space and posture.
It’s pretty obvious that babies do not have the same sleeping patterns as adults. I always place my baby on her back to sleep which is known as the supine position - it is one of safest positions and sleep environment remains safe. The safest sleeping position and space for babies is on their back on a firm, flat mattress with a tight-fitting sheet and nothing else.
Here are few things to keep in mind while putting babies to sleep:
Body Position
I always make sure I lay my baby down to sleep on her back (unless doctor has advised of a medical reason to not do so). Babies don't have the physical ability to hold their necks up and can suffocate if placed on their stomachs.
Babies also inadvertently roll over to their stomach and are unable to roll back if placed on their sides. I always keep in mind my baby does not roll up and might cover herself with the blanket and can increase the potential for SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and might have problem in breathing. Reducing risk of Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) Safe sleep can help protect baby from sudden infant death syndrome.
The best way is to make them sleep on their back from day one and keep putting them to sleep on their back. Babies are at higher risk of SIDS if they have their heads covered, so I always keep my baby’s cot clear of any items such as bumpers, toys, cap with laces and loose bedding. Unnecessary items in a baby’s cot can also increase the risk of accidents.
Sleep Technique
As a mother I often get confused about the sleep duration, it is important to put babies to sleep on their backs through the first six months, since the risk of SIDS is the highest in that time period. Newborns are not the only ones who should be put to sleep on their back, I make sure my baby continues to lie on her back to sleep through the first year of life.
Concerns about Sleeping on the Back
Many parents are concerned that their babies will develop a flat head if they put babies to sleep on their back. To avoid the flatness, I always move my baby’s head in between and flip facing direction. This can reduce the risk of a flat spot developing. I must reassure you at this stage that remodeling of skull takes place till 1st birthday, therefore, no need to worry about flat back.
It will get better on its own and you are not supposed to do any maneuver for the same. Despite common beliefs, there is no evidence that choking is more frequent among infants lying on their backs (the supine position) when compared to other positions, nor is there evidence that sleeping on the back is harmful to healthy babies. In some circumstances, there are still good reasons for placing certain infants on their stomach for sleeping.
Always do your own research and discuss your individual circumstances with your pediatrician. Share your preferred sleeping positions for baby in the comments below.
FAQ's
Q. Why is the supine (back) sleeping position considered the safest for babies?
Ans.The supine or back sleeping position is recommended because it significantly reduces the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Babies do not have strong neck control in the early months, so placing them on their stomach increases the risk of breathing obstruction. Sleeping on the back ensures their airway stays open, helping them breathe normally throughout the night.
Q. How should I create a safe sleep environment for my newborn?
Ans.A safe sleep environment includes a firm, flat mattress with a tight-fitting sheet and absolutely no loose items such as toys, pillows, blankets, bumpers, or caps with laces. These objects can obstruct breathing or cause accidental suffocation. Always place your baby on their back and ensure the cot or crib is clutter-free. A simple, minimal sleep setup lowers the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related accidents.
Q. Why is stomach sleeping dangerous for newborns?
Ans.Stomach sleeping is unsafe because babies lack the neck strength to lift their heads if their airway becomes blocked. This position may restrict airflow, increase carbon dioxide rebreathing, and raise the risk of SIDS. Additionally, babies who are not used to tummy sleeping but accidentally roll into that position are at even higher risk. It is safest to consistently put infants on their backs from day one.
Q. Should I worry if my baby rolls to their stomach during sleep?
Ans.Once babies gain the ability to roll independently, usually after 4–6 months, it is normal for them to move during sleep. You should continue putting them to sleep on their back, but you don’t need to reposition them constantly through the night. Ensure the sleep area has no loose bedding or soft objects. If your baby rolls easily both ways, the risk of suffocation reduces significantly.
Q. How long should babies be put to sleep on their backs?
Ans.Babies should be placed on their backs for every sleep—daytime naps and nighttime sleep—through the first year of life. This practice is especially crucial during the first six months, when the risk of SIDS is highest. Even after babies start crawling or rolling, the back position should remain the starting sleep position. Following this consistently builds a long-term safe sleep habit.
Q. Can sleeping on the back cause a flat head (positional plagiocephaly)?
Ans.Some parents notice a flat spot on the back of their baby’s head, but this is usually temporary and harmless. You can reduce the flattening by gently alternating your baby’s head direction during sleep and giving them supervised tummy time during the day. The skull naturally remodels during the first year, so most flat spots resolve on their own without medical intervention or special devices.
Q. Is choking more likely when babies sleep on their backs?
Ans.No, sleeping on the back does not increase the risk of choking. Babies have natural reflexes that protect their airways, and their anatomy is designed to prevent milk or spit-up from entering the windpipe. Research shows that healthy babies are less likely to choke while lying on their backs compared to other positions. The supine position remains the safest for breathing and sleep.
Q. What items should be avoided in the baby’s cot to prevent SIDS?
Ans.Avoid placing pillows, soft toys, blankets, quilts, bumper pads, or any loose bedding inside the baby’s cot. These items can accidentally block the baby’s airway or cause overheating and suffocation. Even decorative items should be kept outside the sleeping area. A bare crib may look simple, but it is the safest environment for an infant and the best way to reduce SIDS risk.
Q. How long does it take for parents and babies to adjust to a new sleep routine?
Ans.Adjusting to a new sleep routine varies for every family. Newborns typically sleep in short, irregular patterns, making it challenging for parents to adapt. Within a few weeks, babies slowly begin to form more predictable sleep cycles. Consistency helps—placing the baby on their back, maintaining a calm sleep environment, and following a soothing bedtime routine can help both baby and parents get better rest over time.
Q. When should I talk to a pediatrician about my baby’s sleep position?
Ans.You should consult your pediatrician if your baby has medical conditions like severe reflux, breathing problems, or neurological issues that might require alternative sleep positions. While back sleeping is safest for most babies, certain situations may require personalized guidance. Never change your baby’s sleep position based on assumptions; always seek your doctor’s advice to ensure you’re following the safest practices for your child.
