Every parent wants to keep their newborn safe. However, accidents can happen – especially when one or both parents are completely exhausted. Set your family up for success by creating a safe sleep plan before your baby’s arrival, and make sure to share that plan with other caregivers, grandparents and loved ones who will be spending time with your newborn.
Not sure where to begin? We have you covered. The Christ Hospital is proudly certified as a Gold Level Safe Sleep Champion, meaning our healthcare providers are committed to promoting breastfeeding and safe sleep outcomes. This August, The Christ Hospital celebrates National Breastfeeding Month by weighing in on a few common myths about safe sleep, breastfeeding vs. formula and where to find breastfeeding support and safe sleep guidelines.
Can a baby choke when they sleep on their back?
We all know babies spit up frequently. Many parents worry that placing their child on their back will cause them to choke if they spit up during a nap or through the night. However, experts say the spit up would have to work against gravity to enter the baby’s trachea or windpipe while they are on their back. Babies sleeping on their stomachs are more likely to choke, as the fluids exit the esophagus but pool at the trachea opening. Back is always best for the baby.
Is bed sharing necessary for bonding with baby?
Experts strongly agree that bed-sharing with an infant is dangerous and is the number one cause of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). There are many ways to safely bond with your baby, including:
- Skin-to-skin contact: right after your baby is born, ask for skin-to-skin contact with your little one. Snuggling skin-to-skin and softly talking to your newborn will release oxytocin, the hormone that makes you feel connected and satisfied. Skin-to-skin is for both mothers and fathers, and can be done during your hospital stay and once you are settled in at home with your little one.
- Sleep in the same room – NOT the same bed: Have your baby sleep in your room, right next to you in a separate space on a firm surface. No blankets, bumpers or stuffed animals should be near your baby when he or she is sleeping.
- Make a connection during feedings: whether you are nursing or bottle-feeding, make a point to connect with your baby. Snuggle them close, make eye contact and use a soft, soothing voice during feedings.
What’s more nutritious: breastmilk or formula?
Breastmilk is protective and has the exact nutrients your growing baby needs. Breastmilk also has antibodies, which are living cells specific to the family’s environment. These antibodies protect babies from nearby germs and are not present in formula. Breastmilk can also reduce your baby’s risk of ailments like ear infections, respiratory illnesses or allergies. Breastfeeding also lowers a baby’s SIDS risk.
The Christ Hospital: A Safe Sleep Partner
The Christ Hospital is honored to be one of 15 teams chosen to participate in the National Action Partnership to Promote Safe Sleep (NAPPSS). Our lactation team has partnered with local obstetricians, pediatricians and
Cradle Cincinnati, an organization committed to reducing infant mortality in the greater Cincinnati area. This partnership provides a unique opportunity for healthcare providers to work together to reduce SIDS and improve safe sleep outcomes in our community.
The lactation experts at The Christ Hospital are here for your breastfeeding and safe sleep needs. Call the Mt. Auburn Lactation office at 513-585-0597 or the Liberty Township Lactation office at 513-648-7671 for support from one of our experts.