Is Prone Sleeping Safe for Infants? Expert Advice on Feeding and Sleep Patterns

Q: Is Prone Sleeping Safe for Infants? Expert Advice on Feeding and Sleep Patterns

Hello Ms. <br>Chen： The total daily milk intake for your baby should be approximately [(100-120) cc multiplied by the weight in kilograms]. <br>If your baby drinks six times a day, with each feeding around 110 cc, that is within a reasonable range. <br>Sometimes, it's necessary t

Prone sleeping

Hello Dr.
Wang,
I have a few questions to ask you: My child is now three months old and drinks every four hours, but his milk intake is only about 110cc.
Is there a problem with his health? Will this affect his development? He cries halfway through his feeding and then stops drinking.
About 1.5 hours later, he is hungry again.
Should I give him milk in this situation, or should I wait until the scheduled time to feed him? If I let him go hungry for too long, will he not be able to drink? If I feed him again after only 2.5 hours, will this cause him to have digestive issues?
Additionally, when my child was born, I let him sleep on his back, but he would wake up easily and had poor sleep quality.
Later, I allowed him to sleep on his stomach, which improved the situation, but I need to check on him every few minutes.
Is it okay for my child to sleep on his stomach? Also, at what age will he be able to adjust his sleeping position if his mouth and nose are covered?
Thank you for your help with these two questions.

Ms. Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/01/20

Dr. Wang Jiayi reply Pediatrics

Hello Ms.
Chen: The total daily milk intake for your baby should be approximately [(100-120) cc multiplied by the weight in kilograms].
If your baby drinks six times a day, with each feeding around 110 cc, that is within a reasonable range.
Sometimes, it's necessary to burp the baby halfway through feeding to release trapped air; otherwise, the baby may feel full and not want to drink due to swallowing too much air.
Generally, unless an adult is continuously watching the baby, it is advisable for infants under one year old not to sleep on their stomachs, as this is associated with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
The most important thing for your baby is to attend regular health check-ups! The Pediatrics Department at Hualien Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2007/01/20

More Info

Dear Parent,
Thank you for your questions regarding your three-month-old infant's feeding and sleeping patterns. These concerns are quite common among parents, and it's essential to address them with accurate information.

Feeding Concerns
Firstly, regarding your infant's feeding habits, it is not uncommon for a three-month-old to consume around 110cc of formula every four hours. However, every baby is unique, and their feeding needs can vary significantly. The general guideline is that infants should consume about 150-200cc of formula per kilogram of body weight per day. If your baby is around 5-6 kilograms, this would translate to approximately 750-1200cc per day. If your baby is consistently consuming less than this, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician to ensure there are no underlying issues.

When your baby cries during feeding, it could be due to several reasons, including discomfort, gas, or simply being tired. If your baby seems hungry again after 1.5 hours, it is generally acceptable to feed them sooner than the four-hour mark, especially if they are showing signs of hunger. It is crucial to respond to your baby's hunger cues rather than strictly adhering to a schedule. Feeding smaller amounts more frequently can help prevent discomfort and ensure they are getting enough nutrition.

Sleep Patterns and Prone Sleeping
Regarding sleep, it is essential to follow safe sleep guidelines. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that infants be placed on their backs to sleep, as this position significantly reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). While you mentioned that your baby sleeps better in a prone position (on their stomach), this practice is not recommended for infants under one year of age due to the increased risk of SIDS.
If your baby is waking frequently, it could be due to various factors, including hunger, discomfort, or the need for comfort. Babies often wake up during sleep cycles, and it is normal for them to stir. However, if they are consistently waking up and seem distressed, it may be worth exploring other soothing techniques, such as swaddling, using a pacifier, or establishing a calming bedtime routine.

As for your question about when infants can adjust their sleeping position if their mouth or nose is obstructed, most babies develop the ability to reposition themselves around six months of age. Until then, it is crucial to place them on their backs for sleep and ensure their sleep environment is safe, free from soft bedding, toys, or anything that could pose a suffocation risk.

Conclusion
In summary, it is essential to be responsive to your baby's feeding and sleeping needs while adhering to safe sleep practices. If you have ongoing concerns about your baby's feeding amounts or sleep patterns, I recommend consulting your pediatrician for personalized advice and support. They can provide guidance tailored to your baby's specific needs and help ensure their healthy growth and development.

Best wishes for you and your little one!

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