When we think of a young baby sleeping, the most natural assumption is that, the baby will be sleeping with his mother. Babies have slept with their mothers from time immemorial. This was thought to be the best practice as constant contact between mother and baby not only gave the baby a sense of security but also strengthened the emotional bond between the two. The increase in research and studies done on babies, in the recent times, has given rise to a debate as to whether it is better for the baby to sleep with their mother or alone in their cot. Some mothers prefer sleeping together other prefer to put their baby in a cot. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages. It is for the parents to decide what is best for their baby.Benefits of sleeping together:
- Feeding, whether it is breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, is very pleasant experience because of the closeness.
- As the baby is sleeping next to you, you can watch over your baby easily.
- Studies show that as a result of body contact the baby's breathing is stimulated and body temperature is regulated.
- Physical contact with your baby is always a joy, even while sleeping.
Drawbacks of sleeping together:
- Since you are so close, it is likely, that the baby may wake up more frequently and have more feeds.
- You may not sleep well as the baby's movements may disturb you.
- Many mothers worry that they may end up sleeping on their baby, which makes it difficult for them to sleep. This will happen only if you are drunk or using medication that makes you sleepy.
- You may feel that you do not have any time for yourself and that the baby is tied to you.
- Your husband may feel neglected as all your time and attention is devoted to the baby, this can affect your sex life.
- It may be a while before your baby is ready and willing to sleep alone. It may even take over a year for him to be able to sleep independently.
While making any decisions, where the baby is concerned, it is best for the both the parents to participate in the decision making process. An excellent middle path to adopt would be to put a three-sided cot right next to your bed. This way the baby will be in the same room as you and within an arm's length so that you can check on him easily. At the same time he will have an independent cot, which help you sleep without being unnecessarily disturbed.
