Co-sleeping with an infant is not a new practice. Many cultures have engaged in co-sleeping for centuries. Proponents of co-sleeping suggest that the dangers of having your baby sleep with you in an adult bed are minimal. Opponents of co-sleeping argue that there are dangers inherent in co-sleeping that cannot be ignored. Co-sleeping is somewhat controversial, and each side seems to have its pros and cons.

There are several cons to co-sleeping pointed out by proponents. For example, there is the fear that a parent will roll over on top of the baby and somehow smother or injure the baby. There is also the fear that the baby will roll off the bed. There is some concern about the child not wanting to give up sleeping in the parents’ bed. Some parents feel a loss of intimacy and sexual problems between mom and dad when they practice co-sleeping. Perhaps the biggest concern is with SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Some research suggests that co-sleeping increases the risk of SIDS.

There are also pros to co-sleeping that proponents offer. First of all, proponents suggest that co-sleeping can build a stronger bond or attachment between the baby and her parents. Further, co-sleeping can allow a parent quicker access to the baby in the event of an emergency, such as stopped breathing. Co-sleeping can also make breastfeeding during the night can be less disruptive, for both mom and baby when they are in the same bed. Finally, advocates of co-sleeping suggest that the close and warm contact can help the baby fall asleep quicker and sleep more soundly. Some of the proponents of co-sleeping even argue that co-sleeping actually can reduce the risk of SIDS, because parents are more likely to awaken if the baby experiences a loss of breath.

Ultimately, the decision about whether or not to co-sleep is a decision that parents must make for themselves. You should also consider speaking with your health care provider about co-sleeping, as well, and weigh in this expert opinion on the matter.

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