Left vs. Right Side Sleeping: What New Parents Need to Know

Sleeping on the left side?

Hello Dr.
Chen, I am a new mother.
Yesterday, I saw a news report on Taiwan Television stating that the Department of Health warned against letting infants sleep on their stomachs to prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
It mentioned that while sleeping on their backs may cause flat or uneven head shapes, parents are advised to let infants sleep on their right or left sides.
However, I have read a report suggesting that sleeping on the right side is better for physiological needs, as it does not put pressure on the heart and does not affect gastrointestinal motility.
This is particularly beneficial for individuals with cardiovascular diseases or digestive issues.
I believe that for the average person, whether to sleep on the left or right side is not very significant since we tend to turn over in our sleep.
However, my baby is just one month old and cannot turn over yet.
I am concerned that if I let him sleep on his left side, it might put pressure on his heart.
Is this a valid concern, or am I overthinking it? I also want my baby to have a good head shape.
I hope you can address my worries.
Regards, Xiao Fen, March 9, 2005.

Xiao Fen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/04/09

Dr. Chen Guifeng reply Cardiology

Current medical evidence confirms that sleeping on the stomach increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), and therefore it is not recommended.
Sleeping on the side does not cause compression of internal organs, as they are protected by the rib cage.

Reply Date: 2005/04/09

More Info

Dear 小芬,
Thank you for your thoughtful question regarding the sleeping positions for your newborn. As a new parent, it's completely natural to have concerns about your baby's sleep safety and comfort, especially with the conflicting information available regarding sleeping positions.

Firstly, the recommendation against placing infants in a prone (stomach) position while sleeping is indeed crucial due to the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The safest sleep position for infants is on their backs, as this significantly reduces the risk of SIDS. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly advocates for this practice.

Regarding the concerns about head shape, it is true that babies can develop positional plagiocephaly, or flat head syndrome, when they consistently sleep in one position. To mitigate this, parents can encourage "tummy time" while the baby is awake and supervised, which helps strengthen neck and shoulder muscles and promotes motor skills. Additionally, varying the baby's head position during sleep can help prevent flat spots from forming.

Now, concerning the side sleeping positions—both left and right side sleeping have their pros and cons. The right side sleeping position is often recommended for adults with certain health conditions, as it may reduce pressure on the heart and improve digestion. However, for infants, the primary concern is ensuring they are placed on their backs to sleep. If a baby rolls onto their side during sleep, it is generally considered safe, but they should always be placed on their back to start.

As for your specific concern about whether left side sleeping could cause heart compression in your newborn, it is important to note that infants have a flexible rib cage and their bodies are designed to handle various positions. However, the back sleeping position remains the safest and most recommended for infants, as it minimizes the risk of SIDS without the complications that can arise from side sleeping.

If you are worried about your baby's head shape, consider using a firm, flat sleep surface and ensuring that your baby has plenty of opportunities for tummy time while awake. You can also consult with your pediatrician about any concerns regarding your baby's head shape or sleep position. They can provide personalized advice and reassurance based on your baby's specific needs.

In summary, the best practice for your newborn is to place them on their back to sleep, which is the safest position. While side sleeping can be comfortable for adults and may have some benefits, it is not recommended for infants due to the increased risk of SIDS. Focus on providing a safe sleep environment and encourage tummy time during waking hours to promote healthy development.

If you have any further concerns or questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician. They are there to support you and your baby's health and well-being.

Best wishes to you and your little one!
Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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