Crib vs Co-Bed: Which One is for You?

When my daughter was born she slept very little in my bed. I didn't fall into the family bed, or co-sleeping trend that seems to be sweeping the country. I avoided it because I thought it was dangerous and could increase the chances of sids. In fact in most of the studies and research I read while I was pregnant that is what I found. It's not hard to see that all the risk factors are there. Most adults sleep with blankets and pillows, and it's strongly advised that you never let your baby sleep with anything of the sort. It greatly increases the risk of SIDS. Not to mention the possibility of myself or my husband accidentally rolling on her at night. Those things alone were enough to keep my daughter out of my bed!

With all of the conviction I had about the family bed I've heard some new information today that has made me rethink my stance. A doctor commonly referred to as "The Breastfeeding Expert" has done some extensive research in the area of the family bed. What he has found is that co-sleeping, if done the right and safe way can actually lower the risk of SIDS. The fact is that the more contact, especially skin to skin contact a baby has with his or her mother the better off they are. After being in the mother's womb for 9 months, it's a great shock for a newborn just coming into their new world. In a baby's first few months of life being away from their mothers will elevate their stress levels. They feel safe and comfortable when being held by their mothers which enables them to eat better, sleep better and be healthier all around. Before you consider co-sleeping or the family bed make sure you do it safely.

1) Never drink any alcohol or use any drugs while co-sleeping.

2) No loose blanket or comforters.

3) Make sure sheets are tightly fitted.

4) Do some independent research of your own on this subject. I'm no expert, please do further reading of your own before deciding to use the family bed!

While this new information on the family bed, did make me reconsider my choice I still feel that having my daughter sleep in a separate bed was the best choice for me. You have to take into consideration what's best for you and your baby, not just what the research says. Personally, I didn't sleep very well when my daughter shared a room with us, which was during her first six months. Her every noise and move woke me and as a result I was exhausted when it came time to wake up for the day. I also noticed that when I moved her into her own room, she slept longer and better. If you want to be the best mother that you can be you have to take into consideration your needs along with the needs of your new baby. After you do that, you can start working out a sleeping plan that will make both of you happy.