Bed sharing can be deadly for babies

Studies from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have found that bed sharing is the most common cause of sleep-related death in babies 3 months and younger.

Here are some of the risks of bed sharing:

• Suffocation when an infant lies face down on a waterbed, a regular mattress, or soft bedding such as pillows, blankets, or a quilt. Babies can also suffocate when soft bedding covers their head.
• Suffocation when an infant gets trapped or wedged between a mattress and headboard, wall, or other object.
• Strangulation when a baby’s head gets trapped in the bed frame.

However, the AAP does recommend having your baby sleep in the same room, but not the same bed, as you. Put a bassinet, portable play yard, or crib next to your bed. This keeps your baby close by, which can be especially important if you’re breastfeeding. Room sharing is also thought to help lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, though experts aren’t sure why.

Sources:
www.onondagachildfatalityreview.com
www.kidshealth.org