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This is a hot topic and one I almost hesitate to discuses, but I feel like I need to in order to help clear up some confusion, help some tied moms sleep and help build stronger breast-feeding relationships. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently changed their safe sleeping recommendations to this " Infants should sleep in the same bedroom as their parents – but on a separate surface, such as a crib or bassinet, and never on a couch, armchair or soft surface -- to decrease the risks of sleep-related deaths, according to a new policy statement released by the American Academy of Pediatrics." and in the same recommendations they make this statement, " Breastfeeding is also recommended as adding protection against SIDS. After feeding, the AAP encourages parents to move the baby to his or her separate sleeping space, preferably a crib or bassinet in the parents' bedroom. "If you are feeding your baby and think that there's even the slightest possibility that you may fall asleep, feed your baby on your bed, rather than a sofa or cushioned chair," said Lori Feldman-Winter, MD, FAAP, member of the Task Force on SIDS and co-author of the report. "
This tells me two things, there are ways to safely sleep with your baby at arms reach and the connection between breastfeeding and the reduced risk of SIDS has been acknowledged finally! These guidelines are clear that baby should not be in bed with mom and dad, but as a nursing mother I know that you will get more sleep if you can simply feed your baby and then fall back asleep, so let's look at a few options that allow for both!
In-Bed Baby Beds
These types of devices allow the baby to sleep in your bed at an arms length, but also meet the criteria of baby having their own separate sleeping space. There are several options on the market such as the one pictured below.
Traditional Bassinet
These have been a standby for tired moms for years, just make sure that the type you pick is designed for sleeping and not just play. While you still have to physically move the baby in and out of your bed after feeding and your baby will outgrow this option quickly, it will still help you get more sleep in the months.
Bedside Co-Sleeper
These are portable cribs that are designed to be attached to your bed so that your baby has it's own separate space to sleep, but all you have to do is slide the baby back into it's area after you are finished feeding. The only drawback to this option is they can be pricey!
Side-Car a Mini Crib
This was the option that I used with my last baby (and I actually used a full sized crib), for us it was the most practical and economical solution. There are several great tutorials on how to do this online, but this is the basic rundown; you remove the front side of the crib and adjust the mattress to be the same height as your bed (you may need to drill extra holes), then you strap the crib to your bed frame and slide the mattress over so that is is even with your bed, there will be a gap in the back which we filled with a pool noodle and then stretched a fitted crib sheet over both the mattress and noodle.
I hope that these options inspire you to find a way that works best for both you and your baby to get some sleep and keep everyone happy and safe!
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