The main risk of putting a baby to sleep on their side is that they will fall onto their stomach. When a baby is too young to support their head, this may mean that their face becomes stuck against the mattress, making it hard to breathe. Most babies can fully support and lift the head by the age of 4 months.
What happens if baby sleeps on side?
Side-sleeping can increase the risk of SIDS. If your baby happens to roll onto his side or stomach during sleep, and is under 1 year old, gently return him to the back position. Continue to do this until your baby is able to comfortably roll herself over in both directions.
Is it normal for a newborn to roll on their side?
Some newborns will actually roll onto one side to sleep in their very first days, but most babies seem to lose the ability to roll onto their sides independently within the first month.
How should a newborn sleep head position?
- Infants should always be placed on their back to sleep. Modify their sleeping position by placing your baby's head at opposite ends of the crib on alternate nights. If your baby has a nice, rounded head shape, make certain to alternate their sleep position so that they do not develop asymmetry or a flattened area.
How can I keep my baby's head straight while sleeping?
- Practice tummy time. Provide plenty of supervised time for your baby to lie on the stomach while awake during the day.
- Vary positions in the crib. Consider how you lay your baby down in the crib.
- Hold your baby more often.
- Change the head position while your baby sleeps.
Is it OK for newborn to turn head while sleeping?
As baby's skull is very soft and pliable during the first 2 months of life, it is recommended to rotate the head sleeping position. From the day your baby is born, alternate the direction your baby's head is facing when you put him to sleep each night.