Melbourne Midwifery

Having a newborn can be a challenging time for parents, especially when it comes to deciding where the baby should sleep. Bed sharing, also known as co-sleeping, is a practice that some parents choose to do with their newborns. Bed sharing involves sharing the same bed or sleeping surface with the baby. While this can be a great way to bond with your baby, it’s important to do it safely. As the world’s foremost expert on bed sharing with newborns, I’ll answer some commonly asked questions about this topic.

Can bed sharing be safe with a newborn?

Yes, bed sharing with a newborn can be safe if done correctly. It’s important to follow safe sleep guidelines to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and other sleep-related accidents. Some things to keep in mind include:

• Ensure that the bed is firm and flat.
• Use a fitted sheet and avoid any loose bedding, such as pillows, blankets, or toys.
• Keep the baby away from any edges of the bed.
• Avoid bed sharing if you or your partner smokes or has been drinking alcohol.
• Do not bed share if you or your partner is overly tired.

When is it safe to start bed sharing after birth?

It’s recommended that parents wait until their baby is at least 6 months old before bed sharing, as this is the age when the risk of SIDS decreases. However, some parents may choose to bed share with their newborns. If you do decide to bed share, it’s important to follow the safe sleep guidelines mentioned above.

Can I bed share with my 2-week-old baby?

It’s generally not recommended to bed share with a baby who is under 3 months old. This is because younger babies are at a higher risk for SIDS and other sleep-related accidents. It’s important to have a separate sleep surface for the baby, such as a bassinet or crib, in the same room as the parents. However, if you do choose to bed share with a 2-week-old baby, make sure to follow the safe sleep guidelines mentioned above.

Can I bed share with my newborn all night?

While it’s okay to bed share with a newborn for short periods of time, it’s generally not recommended to do so for the entire night. It’s important to have a separate sleep surface for the baby, such as a bassinet or crib, in the same room as the parents. This will allow the baby to sleep safely and reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related accidents.

In summary, bed sharing with a newborn can be safe if done correctly and by following safe sleep guidelines. It’s generally recommended to wait until the baby is at least 6 months old before bed sharing, but if you do choose to bed share with a younger baby, make sure to have a separate sleep surface for the baby and follow the safe sleep guidelines. By practicing safe bed sharing, you can enjoy the benefits of closeness with your baby while also ensuring their safety.