The debate is eternal despite the opinions of doctors. Should babies be forced to sleep on their backs? How can sudden infant death be avoided while comfort is promoted for the child? The opportunity to take stock.

Since the 1990s, doctors and researchers have decided to have all babies sleep on their backs. In this case, Sudden Infant Death (SIDS), more common in babies sleeping on the stomach.

Why should baby sleep on the back?

From the first time spent in maternity, the young mother receives "instructions" to ensure the safety of her newborn. Among them, the baby's sleep. It is forbidden to sleep the little one on the belly. The position lying on the back is strongly advised, if not obligatory. Indeed, it was found in the 1990s that Sudden Infant Death Numbers are higher when children sleep on their stomachs.

What if the child prefers to sleep on his stomach?

After nine times warmly wrapped in the belly of his mother, it is easy to understand that the child is not comfortable lying on a firm mattress (as recommended by the sanitary audoritas), not applicable around him, blocked In a position he did not choose. Many babies also suffer from reflux or digestion problems. They sleep better on the stomach. If this is the case with you, why not allow the position on the belly during naps or waking time on the mat? You will be able to watch him, to be reassured and to allow him to relieve his stomach aches.

Tips for sleeping safely

The conditions to allow your child to sleep on the back (or take a nap on the stomach) safely are not difficult to apply but require rigor. It takes a firm mattress suitable for the bed (without space between the mattress and the bars) and nothing else in the bed than its cuddly towel. No comforter, no comforter, no blanket, no sheets, no pillows. All this could stifle the child. Baby sleeping in a turbulence / sleeping bag or overpyjama. The ideal room temperature is between 18 and 20 ° C. At this point, the toddler does not yet regulate his temperature and the high heat increases the risk of MSN.

The consequences of sleep on the back

Since children sleep on their backs, some consequences are beginning to be (re) known. Among them, the flat head syndrome, in other words "plagiocephaly", which concerns 20% of babies. Different studies alert on vertebral problems, scoliosis, deformation of the jaw. Moreover, these jaw problems can cause problems of suction, dentition or feeding. There is even talk of walking and / or speech learning delays. The cushions limiting this risk are not labeled, so be careful, because if baby turns on a pillow it could choke. On the other hand, on the back, the child does not muscle either his neck or his little arms. He does not learn to hold his head. The time of awakening and games on the stomach can compensate for this lack.