In recent years, the reproduction and the baby care have evolved considerably, with growing interest in practices that promote attachment and the well-being of babies and parents. One of these practices is sleeping with baby in bedwhich is already a tradition in many cultures, but which has generated constant debate about its benefits and possible risks. A practice which, on the other hand, is not the same as co-sleepingterm which generally refers to sleeping close to the baby without necessarily sharing the same mattress. As parents look for ways to create a safe and comfortable environment for their children, questions arise as to which of these options is best.
Co-sleeping and co-sleeping are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have significant differences that are worth understanding. Co-sleeping, for example, involves sleeping in the same room, but not necessarily in the same bed. Parents can use special cribs or bed extenders designed to keep the baby close without sharing the same sleeping space. Bed sharing, on the other hand, means that the baby sleeps directly on the same mattress as their parents, creating greater physical proximity. Although both approaches aim to promote attachment and facilitate nighttime breastfeeding, the implications for family safety, comfort, and well-being can vary considerably. When considering bed sharing with your baby, it is important to consider both the benefits and risks involved. In some cultures, this practice is considered a natural form of parenting, in which physical closeness contributes to the child’s emotional development. However, in other contexts, safety risks, such as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), are of concern.
Differences between sleeping in bed with the baby and sleeping together
Although they are often confused, Sharing a bed with a baby and co-sleeping are not the same thing. As already mentioned, Co-sleeping refers to the practice of sleeping close to the baby, but on distinct surfaces. This can be achieved by using a crib adjacent to the parents’ bed or with a sidecar crib, which attaches to the edge of the bed and allows easy access to the baby without the risks associated with sharing the same mattress.
On the other hand, Sharing the bed with the baby means that the child sleeps directly in the same bed as the parents. This practice increases skin-to-skin contact and facilitates nighttime breastfeeding, since the mother does not need to get up to breastfeed. However, it can also lead to greater risksespecially if parents do not follow certain safety recommendations. The main differences between the two practices therefore lie in physical proximity. and the level of risk each carries. Although co-sleeping tends to be safer, bed sharing may require greater precautions.
Benefits of sharing a bed
One of the main benefits of sharing a bed with your baby is the ability to strengthen the emotional bond between parents and children. Constant contact during the night can make the baby feel more secure and protected, which can improve the quality of sleep of the child and parents. In addition, Having the baby nearby makes breastfeeding easierwhich can be particularly helpful for breastfeeding mothers as it allows for more frequent feedings without prolonged sleep interruption.
Another notable advantage is shared rest. Many parents who choose to bed share report that they feel more rested because they don’t have to get up repeatedly to comfort or feed their baby. Proximity can also help parents respond to the child’s needs more quickly, avoiding prolonged crying that could wake the child completely. Additionally, this practice promotes a sense of emotional well-being in both the baby and the parents, creating a more relaxed and natural environment for both.
The risks of bed sharing
Despite its benefits, sharing a bed with a baby also poses significant risks that parents should consider. One of the biggest risks is increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)especially if adequate measures are not taken to ensure a safe environment. The risk is greater if the parents consume alcohol, smoke or are extremely tired, because in these cases the ability to respond may be affected. In addition, there is a risk that the baby will overheat, getting stuck between sheets or pillows, or even being accidentally crushed by parents.
Another concern is creating a habit that is difficult to break. Although many parents enjoy sharing a bed with their baby for the first few months, it can be difficult to change this dynamic as the child grows and needs to learn to sleep alone. Transitioning to your own crib can be a complicated process and can lead to sleepless nights for both child and parent, especially if it hasn’t been planned in advance.
Safety measures when sharing a bed with the baby
If parents decide to share a bed with their baby, it is essential that they take certain precautions to reduce the risks. First of all, the surface of the bed must be firmno big pillows or heavy blankets that could accidentally cover the baby. The baby should sleep on their back, as this position has been shown to be the safest for reducing the risk of SIDS. In addition, It is important to avoid bed sharing if parents are extremely tiredhave taken alcohol or medications that may affect their ability to respond.
Also It is recommended that parents who decide to share the bed use side protections to prevent the baby from falling. The room must be kept at an appropriate temperature so that the baby does not overheat, and it is crucial that the father and mother agree on the decision and the safety measures that will be taken.
