What is Co-sleeping?
The term "co-sleeping" comes from English and literally means "sleeping together". It is the practice in which the newborn sleeps in the same room as the parents, often sharing the same bed, or with a crib placed next to the bed. In many cultures, especially in Asia and Africa, co-sleeping is a consolidated tradition. In the West, however, the practice has been questioned in recent decades, with debates about the impact it could have on the child and on safety.
However, in recent years co-sleeping has become popular again in Western countries, thanks to new studies that highlight its potential benefits, especially from an emotional and developmental perspective for children.
Pros of Co-sleeping
Co-sleeping has several advantages, ranging from the emotional to the practical. Let's see them in detail:
1. Greater sense of security for the child
One of the main advantages of co-sleeping is the sense of security that the newborn can feel by being close to the parents. Sleep is a vulnerable time for a child and having parents nearby reduces anxiety and fears at night. Children who sleep with their parents tend to cry less and wake up more peacefully.
2. Facilitates nighttime breastfeeding
For breastfeeding moms, co-sleeping can make it much easier to respond quickly to the baby's needs during the night. There is no need to get up and go to another room; the mother can easily breastfeed and comfort the baby without disturbing her own sleep too much.
3. Promotes parent-child bonding
Physical closeness during the night helps to strengthen the emotional bond between parents and baby. Constant contact increases attachment and trust in the child, who learns to recognize that parents are always there to respond to his needs. This sense of security will be essential for the development of his independence in the future.
4. Temperature and breathing regulation
Some studies suggest that sleeping close to parents can help babies better regulate their body temperature and breathing. Physical contact or closeness to parents may help babies maintain a more stable temperature and a more regular breathing pattern during sleep.
Cons of Co-sleeping
Despite the benefits, there are also risks and potential disadvantages associated with co-sleeping that are important to consider before adopting this practice.
1. Security risks
The main concern with co-sleeping is the safety of the baby. Sleeping in the same bed as the parents can increase the risk of accidental suffocation, especially if the parents move in their sleep or use heavy blankets. In particular, parents who take medications that alter sleep, are very tired, or smoke, should not practice co-sleeping.
2. Risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)
One of the most common risks associated with co-sleeping is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) . Although there are conflicting studies on this issue, most experts recommend avoiding co-sleeping with very young infants, especially in the first few weeks of life, unless strict safety measures are followed.
3. Difficulty getting the baby to sleep alone
Children who co-sleep may become dependent on their closeness to fall asleep. This may make it difficult to transition to sleeping alone in the future. Some parents report that their child continues to wake up and ask for parental presence even at 2-3 years of age.
4. Impact on parents' sleep quality
Sleeping with a newborn can disturb the parents' sleep. Night awakenings, the baby's movements and the need to pay constant attention could negatively affect the quality of sleep, especially in the first months, when the newborn wakes up frequently.
Co-sleeping and SIDS: How to Minimize the Risks
One of the main concerns for parents who choose to co-sleep is the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) . Although the relationship between co-sleeping and SIDS is not entirely clear, there are some guidelines to reduce the risk.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends practicing safe co-sleeping by avoiding bed-sharing with your newborn and instead opting for a side-by-side crib . A side-by-side crib allows your baby to sleep close to you, while still having the safety of a separate, stable surface.
Measures for safe co-sleeping:
- Use a crib or cot next to the parents' bed, instead of having the baby sleep in the double bed.
- Avoid soft blankets and pillows, which can increase the risk of suffocation.
- Do not co-sleep if you have consumed alcohol, medications, or are extremely tired.
- Do not co-sleep if you smoke, as smoking is associated with an increased risk of SIDS.
Separation Anxiety and Co-sleeping
Another common concern among parents is separation anxiety that babies develop around 8-9 months. This is a period in which babies become more aware of the physical distance from their parents and, as a result, may show crying and difficulty separating from their mother, both during the day and at night.
Co-sleeping can help alleviate this anxiety, allowing the child to feel more secure knowing that the parents are nearby. However, it is important to balance this growth phase with the process of gaining independence, gradually helping the child to sleep alone.
When and How to Co-sleeping?
There is no hard and fast rule about when to start or stop co-sleeping. Every family is different and the decision depends on many factors, including the needs of the baby and the parents. Some families choose to practice co-sleeping for the first few months, then move on to independent sleeping. Others do it occasionally, such as during illnesses or when the baby has nightmares.
It is important for parents to find a balance that works for them, always keeping safety as a priority.
Conclusion: Is Co-sleeping the Right Choice for You?
Co-sleeping can be a rewarding experience for many families, as it strengthens the bond between parents and baby, facilitates nighttime breastfeeding, and contributes to a greater sense of security for the newborn. However, it also carries risks, especially in terms of safety, which must be addressed carefully.
If you decide to co-sleep, be sure to follow safe sleep recommendations. Remember that every family is different and there is no one-size-fits-all solution; choose what works best for you and your baby, ensuring that you both get a good, safe night’s sleep.
