Tips for safe sleeping

When your baby is born you will likely find yourself receiving lots of information and advice about what’s best for your and your baby. You may find what’s top of your list will be how to sleep your baby safely.

At Birthcare we have a safe sleeping policy which is evidence-based and research based. When you stay at Birthcare our staff will help support you with safe sleeping practices to build on your confidence when you go home.

Tips for safe sleeping your newborn
Your baby should be placed to sleep facing upright. Keep their face clear of any items, including blankets. Have your baby placed at the end of their bed, so that they aren’t able to wriggle down under blankets in their sleep. The bed should also be free of toys and any other accessories. The bed surface should be firm, with no pillow.

The room should be smoke free, along with the home. The temperature in the room should be warm, but not too hot.

Research shows that babies are up to six times safer sleeping on their back rather than their stomach or their side. There is also research that reveals co-sleeping to be risky, especially under three months of age. If you are considering co-sleeping, we recommend speaking with your midwife to make an informed decision.

At Birthcare we offer parenting classes which also teach you what to expect in the early days. Our parenting classes provide you with antenatal, labour, and postnatal guidance too.

This blog is a guide only. We recommend you speak with your midwife, GP, or Plunket nurse if you have any questions.

Resources:

For more information on safe sleeping see some links below.

• Safe Sleeping for Babies – National Child Health Research Association Foundation – Information Fact Sheet:  https://sudinationalcoordination.co.nz/guidelines
• Ministry of Health, NZ: https://www.health.govt.nz/your-health/pregnancy-and-kids/first-year/first-6-weeks/keeping-baby-safe-bed-first-6-weeks