Sweet Dreams & Safe Sleep: What Grandma Knew (and What We Know Now!)

Safe sleep advice deep dive coming your way because October is Infant Safe Sleep Month and there is never a bad time to keep your little one safe! As new parents, you’re likely flooded with advice—from well-meaning relatives to online forums. While the love and wisdom passed down through generations are invaluable, when it comes to infant sleep, what Grandma or even your own mom used to do might not be what’s recommended today.

At Michigan Family Doulas, we honor tradition, but we also champion evidence-based practices that keep your little ones as safe as possible. Let’s talk about how much safe sleep advice has evolved and, more importantly, why.

The Big Shift: From Tummy to Back

Think back to the stories your parents told: “We always put you to sleep on your tummy!” This was indeed the common practice for decades. The thought was that babies would be more comfortable or less likely to choke.

However, groundbreaking research drastically changed our understanding.

The “Back to Sleep” campaign, launched in the U.S. in 1994 (now known as Safe to Sleep®), was a pivotal moment. This initiative encouraged parents to place healthy infants on their backs to sleep. The results were astounding:

• A Dramatic Decline: Since the launch of the “Back to Sleep” campaign, the rate of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) has declined by over 50% in the United States. (Source: CDC Trends in SUID Rates and Safe to Sleep® Campaign Data)
• Saving Lives: This simple change in sleep position is credited with saving thousands of infant lives.

Why the change? Studies consistently showed a strong link between tummy sleeping and an increased risk of SIDS. While the exact mechanism is still being researched, it’s believed that tummy sleeping can lead to rebreathing exhaled air (reducing oxygen intake), overheating, and less arousal from sleep.

Beyond “Back to Sleep”: The ABCs of Safe Sleep

Today, safe sleep recommendations go beyond just position. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and other leading health organizations advocate for the ABCs of Safe Sleep:

• A – ALONE: Your baby should sleep alone. This means no co-sleeping in an adult bed. While room-sharing is recommended (keeping your baby’s sleep space in your bedroom), your baby should be in their own crib, bassinet, or play yard.
• B – BACK: Always place your baby on their back to sleep. This goes for every nap and every night until they are 1 year old.
• C – CRIB: Use a firm sleep surface, such as a mattress in a safety-approved crib, bassinet, or play yard. Ensure the crib is bare – no bumper pads, loose blankets, pillows, or soft toys. A fitted sheet is all you need.

Addressing Other Common Safe Sleep Advice Misconceptions

• Loose Bedding: Grandma might have tucked you in snugly with blankets. Today, we know loose bedding, including blankets, quilts, and comforters, can pose a suffocation risk. Use sleep sacks or wearable blankets for warmth instead.
• Bumper Pads: Once considered decorative or protective, crib bumper pads are now strongly discouraged. This is due to the risk of suffocation, entrapment, or strangulation.
• Inclined Sleepers: Recent safety alerts have highlighted the dangers of inclined sleepers. These are no longer recommended due to risk of suffocation. Babies should sleep on a flat, firm surface.

How Your Michigan Family Doula Can Help

It can be tough to navigate conflicting advice, especially when it comes from loved ones. Our compassionate postpartum doulas are here to support you without judgment. We provide evidence-based education on safe sleep practices, help you set up a safe sleep environment, and offer gentle guidance so you can feel confident in your choices.

We respect the wisdom of generations past, but when it comes to the safety of your precious little one, staying informed with the latest research is paramount.

This Infant Safe Sleep Month, let’s work together to give every baby in Michigan the safest start possible.

Contact Michigan Family Doulas today for expert postpartum and newborn care support.

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