April, 2026
Can Newborns Sleep on Their Side
Newborns should sleep on their backs, not on their side, according to safe sleep guidance from pediatric organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Back sleeping reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and is recommended for every sleep during the first year of life.
This does not automatically mean side positions are always unsafe, because side-lying can still be used safely when babies are awake and supervised. The key difference is whether the baby is sleeping or awake.
In the United States, sleep-related infant deaths affect about 3,400 babies each year, which is why pediatric safe sleep guidance emphasises back sleeping.
Why back sleeping is recommended
Back sleeping helps keep a baby’s airway open and stable during sleep. When babies lie on their back, the anatomy of the airway and tongue position naturally reduces the chance of airway blockage. Research summarized by the American Academy of Pediatrics shows that babies who sleep on their backs have a significantly lower risk of SIDS compared with stomach or side sleeping.
Why side sleeping is not recommended
Side sleeping is considered unstable for newborns. Babies placed on their side can easily roll onto their stomach during sleep. Because newborn muscles are still developing, they may not yet be able to reposition themselves safely if their breathing becomes restricted.
Why some newborns naturally roll to the side
Some newborns briefly roll onto their side during the first weeks of life because of a reflex sometimes called the newborn curl. This reflex usually fades within the first few weeks as muscle control changes. Even if this happens naturally, caregivers should still place the baby on the back at the start of every sleep.
What doctors recommend for safe sleep
Safe sleep guidelines recommend placing babies on a firm mattress with only a fitted sheet. Soft bedding, pillows, sleep positioners, wedges, or rolled blankets should not be used in the crib. These items can increase the risk of unsafe sleep conditions.
A common myth about choking
Some parents worry that babies sleeping on their back may choke if they spit up milk. Pediatric research shows that healthy infants do not have a higher choking risk when sleeping on their backs. The airway anatomy and gag reflex help protect breathing even when babies spit up.
When side-lying can be helpful
Side-lying can be useful during awake time. Pediatric physiotherapists sometimes use this position to support movement development and reduce pressure on the back of the head. These benefits occur when babies are awake and supervised, not while sleeping.
What pediatric experts explain
Pediatric sleep guidance from organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and Johns Hopkins Medicine recommends placing babies on their back for every sleep during the first year of life. Pediatric physiotherapist Elly van der Grift explains, “Side-lying can support movement and comfort when babies are awake, but they should always be placed on their backs when it is time to sleep.”
When parents usually ask about side sleeping
Parents often ask about side sleeping when their newborn prefers turning the head one direction or seems more comfortable on the side. By 3 to 4 months, many babies develop stronger head control and begin rolling, which naturally changes how they move during sleep.
Common questions parents ask
Can newborns sleep on their side?
No, babies should always be placed on their back for sleep.
Is side-lying ever safe?
Yes, side-lying can be used when babies are awake and supervised.
Why do some newborns roll to their side?
A temporary newborn reflex can cause brief side rolling.
Does back sleeping cause flat head?
Some pressure flattening can occur but usually improves with movement and tummy time.
When can babies sleep in other positions?
Once babies can roll independently, they may change positions during sleep.
Writen by Elly van der Grift
Elly van der Grift is a pediatric physiotherapist with more than 30 years of experience helping families understand infant head growth and development.