Does breastfeeding make cosleeping safer?

The Intersection of Breastfeeding and Cosleeping: A Safer Sleep for Infants?
In recent years, the practice of cosleeping—where parents and infants share the same sleeping surface—has sparked considerable debate among parents, healthcare professionals, and researchers. A significant aspect of this discussion revolves around the role of breastfeeding in making cosleeping safer for infants.
Understanding Cosleeping and Its Historical Context
Cosleeping is not a modern phenomenon; it has been a common practice across cultures for centuries. Many societies have embraced the idea of infants sleeping close to their mothers, which aligns with the natural instincts of both mother and child. This close proximity is believed to provide warmth, security, and easy access to breastfeeding, which is crucial for an infant’s well-being.
The Benefits of Breastfeeding in a Cosleeping Arrangement
Breastfeeding and cosleeping often go hand in hand, creating a symbiotic relationship that can enhance the safety and comfort of both mother and baby. Research indicates that breastfeeding can lead to more restful sleep for mothers, as they can easily nurse their infants without fully waking up. This convenience not only fosters a stronger emotional bond but also supports a better milk supply, which is vital for the baby’s growth and development.
Moreover, breastfeeding during the night can reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Studies suggest that breastfed babies who cosleep are less likely to experience SIDS compared to those who sleep separately. The act of breastfeeding can promote a more alert state in mothers, allowing them to respond quickly to their baby’s needs.
Physiological and Psychological Benefits
From a physiological standpoint, breastfeeding while cosleeping can help regulate the infant’s body temperature and heart rate, creating a more stable environment for sleep. The close contact between mother and baby can also enhance the infant’s psychological development, as the baby feels secure and nurtured.
Professor James J. McKenna, a leading researcher in the field, emphasizes that the dynamics of breastfeeding and cosleeping can significantly influence an infant’s physiological and psychological well-being. His studies suggest that the natural instinct for mothers and babies to sleep close together is rooted in evolutionary biology, aimed at ensuring the survival and health of the infant.
Navigating Safety Concerns
While the benefits of breastfeeding in a cosleeping arrangement are compelling, it is essential to navigate the associated safety concerns. Experts recommend adhering to specific guidelines to minimize risks. For instance, parents should ensure that the sleeping surface is firm, avoid soft bedding, and never cosleep on a couch or armchair, where the risk of suffocation is higher.
Additionally, parents should be mindful of their own sleep habits and health conditions. Factors such as fatigue, substance use, or certain medications can impair a parent’s ability to respond to their baby during the night, potentially increasing risks.
Conclusion: A Balanced Perspective
In conclusion, breastfeeding can indeed make cosleeping safer by fostering a nurturing environment that supports the infant’s needs while enhancing the mother’s ability to respond to those needs. However, it is crucial for parents to remain informed and vigilant about safety practices to ensure that this age-old tradition can be enjoyed without unnecessary risks. As the conversation around cosleeping continues to evolve, the integration of breastfeeding into this practice remains a vital consideration for many families.

At what age is cosleeping safe?

1 year old
Co-sleeping with a child over 1 year old has a little less risk than with one under 12 months. At a toddler’s age of 1 to 2 years old, they can roll over and free themselves in case they are trapped in the bed. As a child gets older, it becomes less risky to co-sleep, but it’s still best for them to sleep on their own.

Why do breastfed babies sleep better at night?

Breastmilk at night
For most mothers, breastmilk will gradually increase in fat content throughout the day. During the evening, young babies often cluster feed, taking in frequent feeds of this fattier milk, which tends to satisfy them enough to have their longest stretch of sleep.

Why do breastfed babies sleep better?

Breastfeeding also releases hormones that help you and your baby feel sleepy and relaxed. You may hear co-sleeping and breastfeeding being called “breastsleeping”. Make sure you know how to co-sleep safely.

Does breastfeeding make co-sleeping safer?

For co-sleeping, which statistically heightens SIDS risk, you want as few other risk factors to be present as possible, thus the recommendation to breastfeed. Feeding baby pumped milk might be all the protection baby needs. But, nursing may also give added protection re: mom/baby positions or awareness of each other.

How long do you have to breastfeed to reduce SIDS?

Breastfeeding for at least 2 months halves the risk of SIDS but the longer you can continue the more protection it will give your baby.

What are the side effects of breastfeeding while sleeping?

Conclusions: Accidental asphyxia is a rare but possible outcome if mothers fall asleep in bed with their infants while breast feeding. Nursing mothers should be made aware of the potential dangers of fatigue and sedation in such circumstances.

Why are breastfed babies less likely to have SIDS?

Authors said it was unclear why breastfeeding protected infants from SIDS but discussed several possibilities, including better arousal from sleep in breastfed babies. Breast milk also boosts infants’ immune systems and supports their brain development.

Why does co-sleeping reduce SIDS?

The mother’s arm forms a barrier between the infant’s head and the pillow (Prone sleep and pillows are risk factors for sleep-related death.) Both mothers and infants are more arousable when bedsharing (27, 29, 30). They breastfeed more frequently than dyads sleeping separately (8).

How many hours of sleep does a breastfeeding mom need?

6 hours
This leads us to believe that shooting for 6 hours per night as a breastfeeding mom is a good goal. Some will do fine with a bit less, some will still feel like they didn’t get enough with more than 6.

Do breastfeeding mothers sleep better?

Did you know that breastfeeding mothers can get more sleep? Breastfeeding can be much quicker and easier than bottle feeding in the middle of the night. Less time up and moving around means less time awake.