Almost 30% of new mothers face this dangerous habit. What it is and how to avoid it

Researchers from the University of Virginia found that about 28% of mothers sometimes fall asleep while breastfeeding. Nearly 34% said they fell asleep in bed, and 17% said they fell asleep on a chair or couch. 

The data was collected by experts by interviewing more than 1250 new mothers in 16 US hospitals between 2015 and 2016. Therefore, the authors of this study warn that such a habit can be dangerous, and therefore it is important to understand this topic in more detail. About this write Parents. 

Is it possible to fall asleep while breastfeeding?

Experts agree that this phenomenon is quite common.

“I think that as part of the normal prenatal and early postpartum period, parents should be told that they are likely to fall asleep while breastfeeding,” says Sheris Thor, PhD.

The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend falling asleep while feeding, but new parents should still remember that in the event of falling asleep, feeding in bed is considered safer than feeding in a chair or sofa.

“It is much safer to breastfeed in the side-lying position on a firm, flat mattress,” says Sarah Ashley Lowe, a registered nurse and internationally certified lactation consultant.

When parents fall asleep on a chair or sofa, there are many soft places where a baby can fall and not be able to breathe freely. Babies can also fall from a chair onto the floor, which can lead to head injuries or other injuries.

What mistake should young mothers avoid while breastfeeding? Source: freepik.com

How to set up a safe feeding area

This process requires planning to make feeding as comfortable as possible for both you and your baby. 

Experts have provided several tips that will help in this matter:

• Feed on a firm mattress. The bed should be located away from the wall, and should not have cords, blankets, or pillows near the child.
• Focus on the side-lying position. This will help prevent the baby from rolling over.
• Remember that the back is best for the baby. Once your baby is asleep, remove him from the breastfeeding position and return him to a safe sleeping environment (cradle or crib).

“Put him on his back every time,” advises Sanji Garza-Cox, MD. The same goes for bottle-feeding. 

Jessica Madden, MD, emphasizes that babies should sleep in the same room as their parents. This will make it easy to transfer the baby to the crib when they need to be fed and back again.

What mistake should young mothers avoid while breastfeeding? Source: freepik.com

How to stay awake while breastfeeding

• Try a few tactics that may improve the situation:
• Feed in a well-lit, slightly noisy place. You can watch a favorite show or listen to a podcast to stimulate the senses.
• Turn on the lights if necessary and drink some cold water to prevent sleepiness.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help. Get your partner or someone close to you to check in on you and your baby.
• Avoid taking sleeping pills or medications that may cause drowsiness before feeding. If you need to take such medications, be sure to consult your doctor.

Dr. Madden recommends changing positions. This may even mean moving to another room.

Finally, Dr. Madden urges new parents to sleep whenever possible. “This will help prevent over-tiredness. Trying to take a nap or a nap during the day can help,” she explains.

“You shouldn’t avoid getting help from a partner, family member, or close friend. Remember, you’re not a bad parent if you suddenly fall asleep during a difficult emotional and physical period for you. You’re a good parent, you just might be tired,” the specialist emphasizes.