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Is it Safe to Sleep with Baby On Breast?

Published in Infant Sleep Safety 2 mins read

When bedsharing with a breastfed baby, mothers typically adopt a naturally protective position known as the 'cuddle curl,' which makes smothering unlikely. This specific context provides insights into the safety dynamics of sleeping in close proximity to your baby.

Understanding the 'Cuddle Curl' Position

Research indicates that breastfed babies instinctively orient themselves near their mother's breast in bed. This natural behavior facilitates a protective posture by the mother.

Key Aspects of the Cuddle Curl

Aspect Description
Position Mothers who bedshare with their breastfed babies commonly adopt the 'cuddle curl' position. In this position, the mother lies on her side, facing the baby, with her arm extended above the baby's head or curled around the baby, and her knees drawn up beneath the baby.
Context This protective posture is observed specifically when mothers bedshare with their breastfed infants. The baby is positioned close to the breast, allowing for easy access for nursing throughout the night.
Safety Benefit This naturally protective arrangement helps to create a safe space for the baby, making smothering unlikely. The mother's body acts as a barrier, preventing the baby from rolling off the bed or into a dangerous position, and she is typically highly attuned to the baby's presence.

Practical Insights into Bedsharing and Breastfeeding

The integration of breastfeeding with bedsharing is a significant factor in the adoption of the 'cuddle curl.'

  • Natural Orientation: Breastfed babies instinctively position themselves close to the breast, signaling their feeding needs through subtle movements or sounds, which mothers are often highly responsive to, even during sleep.
  • Maternal Awareness: Due to hormonal influences and the demands of nighttime feeding, breastfeeding mothers often have a heightened awareness of their baby's presence and movements while bedsharing, contributing to the protective environment.

This synergy between a breastfed baby's natural orientation and the mother's protective positioning contributes to the overall safety profile highlighted by research in this specific context.