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Welcoming a new baby into your life is an incredible journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and, let’s face it, a few late-night Google searches. One of the most common questions parents-to-be find themselves asking is, "How can I keep my baby safe while they sleep?" If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. As a doula who’s walked this road with countless families, I’m here to reassure you that with the right information and support, you can create a safe, soothing sleep environment for your baby—and maybe even catch a few Z’s yourself.

Why Safe Sleep Practices Matter

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) emphasizes the importance of safe sleep practices, as they significantly reduce the risk of Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Syndrome (SUIDS) and other sleep-related injuries. It can be overwhelming to navigate all the guidelines and advice out there, but the good news is that creating a safe sleep setup doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little preparation and some expert tips, you can feel confident that you’re doing everything possible to keep your baby safe.

The ABCs of Safe Sleep

Let’s start with the basics: the ABCs of safe sleep. These three principles form the foundation of a secure sleep environment for your little one:

• A is for Alone: Your baby should always sleep in their own space, free from pillows, blankets, stuffed animals, and bumpers. While these items might look cozy, they can pose suffocation risks.

• B is for Back: Always place your baby on their back to sleep, whether it’s naptime or bedtime. This position is the safest for their airway.

• C is for Crib (or Bassinet): Use a safety-approved crib or bassinet with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet. Avoid soft mattresses, which can create dangerous sleep surfaces.

By sticking to these simple guidelines, you’re already taking huge steps toward a safer sleep environment for your baby.

Room Sharing vs. Bed-Sharing

One question I hear often is, “Should my baby sleep in my room or their own room?” The AAP recommends room sharing for at least the first six months and ideally up to a year. Keeping your baby close in a crib or bassinet can make nighttime feedings easier and reduce the risk of SUIDS.

However, room sharing is not the same as bed-sharing. While the idea of snuggling up with your baby might seem appealing (and trust me, I get it), bed-sharing increases the risk of suffocation and falls. If you’re considering bed-sharing, it’s essential to follow the “Safe Seven” guidelines:

1. Only non-smoking parents should bed-share.

2. Caregivers should be sober and alert—no alcohol, drugs, or medications that impair awareness.

3. Breastfeeding parents tend to exhibit protective instincts, making bed-sharing safer in those cases.

4. Ensure your baby is full-term and healthy.

5. Always place your baby on their back, even in a bed-sharing setup.

6. Keep bedding minimal to prevent suffocation risks.

7. Position your baby close to you but away from pillows, edges, and other sleepers.

Practical Tips for Safe Sleep

Beyond the ABCs, there are practical steps you can take to make safe sleep doable and stress-free for your family:

• Swaddling: If your baby isn’t rolling yet, swaddling can help them feel secure. Once they start to roll, transition to a sleep sack or wearable blanket to keep them cozy and safe.

• Temperature Control: Babies sleep better in cooler temperatures, ideally between 68-72°F. Dress your baby in breathable layers and check their hands, toes, ears, and nose to ensure they’re warm enough without overheating.

• Pacifiers: Offering a pacifier at sleep times has been shown to reduce the risk of SUIDS. Don’t worry if your baby isn’t interested—it’s just one tool in your safe sleep toolkit.

• Consistent Bedtime Routine: Simple steps like reading a book or singing a lullaby can help your baby wind down and signal that it’s time to sleep.

Debunking Common Myths

There’s a lot of misinformation out there about baby sleep. Let’s clear up a few myths:

• Myth 1: “My baby sleeps better on their tummy.” While tummy sleeping might seem more comfortable, it’s not safe. Babies should always be placed on their backs until they can roll independently in both directions.

• Myth 2: “Blankets in the crib are fine if my baby looks cold.” Instead of blankets, use a wearable blanket or dress your baby in layers. Loose blankets can pose a suffocation hazard.

• Myth 3: “Back sleeping increases the risk of choking if my baby spits up.” Actually, back sleeping helps keep airways clear and reduces the risk of choking, thanks to your baby’s natural reflexes.

Support for Pregnant and Postpartum Families

As a doula, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate these guidelines on top of everything else that comes with welcoming a baby. That’s why I’m passionate about offering support to families during pregnancy and postpartum. Whether it’s through one-on-one consultations, sleep coaching, or ongoing postpartum care, my goal is to help you feel informed, empowered, and confident in your parenting decisions.

One of the best things you can do to prepare for this journey is to build a support network. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, whether that’s a doula, friends and family, or a local parenting group. And don’t be afraid to ask for help—parenting isn’t meant to be done alone.

Final Thoughts

Safe sleep isn’t about perfection; it’s about making informed choices that work for your family within the guidelines. If you’re pregnant and preparing for your baby’s arrival, now is the perfect time to start thinking about how you can create a safe, cozy sleep space. And if you’re already in the postpartum stage, remember that it’s okay to adjust and adapt as you learn what works best for your baby.

For more tips, resources, and personalized support, feel free to reach out by making a free discovery call here: www.douladeb.com/schedule-with-me. Together, we can make sure your little one sleeps safe and sound while giving you the peace of mind you deserve. You’ve got this, and I’m here to help every step of the way.