SAFE SLEEP: Breastfeeding and Safe Sleep

Breastfeeding your baby can be a very pleasant and rewarding experience. According to the Breastfeeding Coalition of Delaware, breastfeeding is healthy for both mom and baby. Moms that breastfeed are less likely to have breast and ovarian cancer. Breastfeeding also decreases postpartum bleeding and speeds up any uterine recovery. As for baby, they receive endless benefits. Breast milk is a great source of nutrients that are important for healthy growth and development. It also helps decrease the risk of health issues like diabetes, asthma, ear infections and more.

Practicing safe sleep

While breastfeeding has many pros, it is important to take the right steps to ensure your baby’s safety. Always remember the rules of safe sleep when breastfeeding! Feeding your baby while in bed may be relaxing, but it is not the safest idea. Breastfeeding in a comfortable spot like your bed can make it easy for you to doze off. This can lead to injury or suffocation.

Safe sleep should always be a top priority for your baby. Make sure you put your little one to sleep in his or her own crib once you start to feel sleepy. Parents should also have an empty crib ready for their baby. Another safe sleep tip is to make sure your baby is always sleeping on their back. There should be nothing but a mattress with a fitted sheet. Any toys or pillows endanger the baby’s safety. A safe sleep environment should be smoke-free. If you or anyone who lives with you smokes, it’s important to always partake far away from the baby’s space. Parents or guardians of the child should also make sure that there is a safe person to take care of their baby if they can’t.

Breastfeeding is a great time for bonding with your baby. Talk to your doctor to see if breastfeeding is the right choice for you. Curious about what safe sleep looks like? Check out our safe sleep videos!