What is the risk associated with babies sleeping on their stomachs or sides?

The increased risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a significant concern when babies are placed to sleep on their stomachs or sides. Research has shown that these sleeping positions can impair a baby's ability to breathe effectively and increase the likelihood of rebreathing carbon dioxide. This effect can arise because when a baby sleeps on their stomach, they may accidentally cover their nose and mouth with bedding, leading to a buildup of carbon dioxide and reduced oxygen levels.

In contrast, when infants are placed on their backs to sleep, it has been demonstrated to reduce the risk of SIDS significantly. This "back-to-sleep" recommendation is now a standard guideline for infant sleep positioning to promote safer sleeping practices. Understanding this risk is essential for caregivers and parents to ensure infants sleep safely and minimize potential dangers associated with their sleeping positions.