Real Medical Questions from Parents

Tuesday 16th March 2010

Lunalu's Diary: Real Medical Questions from Parents

This week’s topic is about baby sleeping positions answered by Dr. Liana Dao

What is the official ‘preferred’ method for a baby to sleep? Back sleeping is safer. It has decreased SIDS rate by at least 50%. Side sleeping has not been studied adequately, but from what is available it appears it is not as safe as back sleeping.

What if my baby is more comfortable on his belly? This is a common misperception. The baby becomes most comfortable only in the position he sleeps in the most.

Can I still put the baby on his stomach once in a while if I supervise? Yes.

When can I safely put my baby on his stomach? He will learn to roll over by about 5-6 months which usually means it’s safe for tummy sleeping.