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When can a baby sleep on his or her belly? Two answers are possible to this question. Babies are allowed to sleep on their stomach when they are strong enough to be able to turn independently. On the other hand, you want to postpone an abdominal position as long as possible. That has everything to do with the consequences. The chance of cot death is considerably higher with belly sleepers than with a supine position. When can and can your baby sleep safely on the stomach?
A belly position in babies increases the risk of cot death
A baby preferably sleeps on the back from birth. Research has shown that an abdominal position entails an increased risk of cot death. The exact cause of this sudden death is unknown. There are, however, a number of factors that play a major role, including a too early abdomen or Side position in babies .
The chance of cot death is greatest in the first six months after birth. However, the danger has not yet passed after this period. Cradle death occurs in children up to 2 years old. So you want to prevent belly sleeping until this time. Yet some children of 6 months are already strong enough to be able to turn themselves. Extra control while sleeping is therefore necessary.
For this reason you also want to prevent belly sleeping in babies:
The best sleep position for small children is on the back. Can also prevent nose colds and ear infections. Babies who sleep on the back have a lower thread temperature. As a result, harmful bacteria get less chance of growing into a cold, ear or respiratory infection. A back position in babies is therefore also healthier.
Belly position in babies training under your supervision
Although a baby is not allowed to sleep on the stomach during your absence, you can train a belly position. Of course when the child is awake and under your supervision. This way you can prepare your baby for belly sleeping and you train the development of his or her motor skills. Your child has to lift the head and trains the arm and back muscles. As a result, your baby can sit later, but also crawl and steps.
Although you are still careful with you baby in the first weeks, it is good not to wait too long with this training. That is allowed since your baby is 4 months old. From 6 months they can usually run independently, even in their bed. By practicing the belly position regularly, you don't have to be afraid if your child will soon turn from his back to his belly. Of course you have to check and correct this.