Adult Beds Unsafe for Infant Naps

Bravo, says James Kemp, M.D., a sleep expert and associate professor of pediatrics at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, whose research in 2000 recommended against placing babies in adult beds.

"You can be attentive to your baby, but not on the same sleep surface," says Kemp, who is also a SLUCare pediatrician at SSM Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital. "A bassinet or crib next to a parent's bed is the best place for a baby to sleep. It's great to be close to your baby while sleeping. But being on the same standard sleep surface -- an adult bed, couch or chair -- is a bad idea."

Kemp's research found that bedsharing in the United States may increase the risk of death for babies who can suffocate in soft bedding, get trapped beneath a parent, or get caught between the bed and wall or headboard. Common, well intended measures to make an adult bed "safe" for a baby -- pushing it against a wall or placing pillows around its edge -- can make it even more dangerous, he added.

While Kemp applauds recent research that points out the benefits of breast-feeding, he says nursing doesn't give moms license to fall asleep on adult beds with their infants.

"Breast feeding is not enhanced by falling asleep on the same sleep surface as your babies," he says.

He says it's a safer idea to place a baby in his or her crib after the mom finishes nursing rather dozing together. Kemp also encourages parents to place their babies on their backs to sleep because his research has shown that putting them to sleep on their tummies also increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

Kemp's suggestions are consistent with practices suggested by the American Academy of Pediatrics, which has cautioned against bedsharing and recommends placing babies on their backs for sleeping.

Established in 1836, Saint Louis University School of Medicine has the distinction of awarding the first M.D. degree west of the Mississippi River. Saint Louis University School of Medicine is a pioneer in geriatric medicine, organ transplantation, chronic disease prevention, cardiovascular disease, neurosciences and vaccine research, among others. The School of Medicine trains physicians and biomedical scientists, conducts medical research, and provides health services on a local, national and international level.

SLUCare is the physician practice of Saint Louis University School of Medicine, providing care at more than 100 locations throughout Missouri and Illinois. Doctors can be reached by calling 314.268.5880 or 800.268.5880.

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