23-Day-Old Infant Suffocates While Sleeping Between Parents — Why Co-Sleeping Isn’t Always Safe

In Amroha, Uttar Pradesh, a 23-day-old infant suffocated while sleeping between his parents at night. The baby was the couple’s first child after several years of waiting, which makes the loss even more painful.

This incident has made many parents think about co-sleeping, a common practice where babies sleep on the same bed as their parents. While it is often done out of love and care, doctors warn that it can be unsafe for very young babies.

Why Many Parents Choose Co-Sleeping

New parents are often tired and sleep-deprived. Many parents choose co-sleeping because it makes feeding easier and even parents feel more relaxed. Also in some cases, the baby sleeps for a longer time under the warmth of parents.

Why Co-Sleeping Can Be Dangerous for Newborns

Newborns cannot move their heads or bodies properly. If something blocks their nose or mouth, they cannot push it away or turn their head.

Even careful parents may not realize what is happening while they are asleep.

There are some risks that can take place unknowingly like:

• A parent accidentally rolling over during sleep
• Pillows, blankets, or quilts covering the baby’s face
• Soft mattresses where the baby sinks in
• Overheating due to body heat
• Gaps between the mattress and the wall or headboard

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Why Very Young Babies Are More at Risk

At just a few weeks old, a baby’s neck muscles are weak. Their breathing system is still developing, and they cannot react quickly if breathing becomes difficult.

This is why the first three months are the most sensitive time for safe sleep.

What Doctors Recommend

Doctors and child health experts advise room-sharing, not bed-sharing. This means keep the baby in the same room as parents. Just let the baby sleep in a separate crib or bassinet near the bed. This allows parents to stay close while giving the baby a safe sleeping space.

Experts also recommend:

• Always place babies on their back to sleep
• Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet
• Keep the baby’s sleep area free of pillows, blankets, toys, or cushions
• Avoid letting babies sleep on sofas or very soft surfaces

Parenting a newborn is exhausting and emotional. Every parent wants to do what feels best for their child. But when it comes to sleep, safety must always come before comfort.

Sometimes, the safest place for a baby is right next to you, but in their own space.