Premature, low birth weight
and sick infants
Babies admitted to a special or intensive
care nursery due to premature birth, low
birth weight or a medical condition are
often nursed in a variety of positions
including on their tummy or side, most
commonly if they require respiratory
support, e.g. oxygen or ventilation
babies are monitored while they are in
hospital. Premature birth and low birth
weight are associated with an increased
risk of sudden infant death, but some of
this risk is associated with side or tummy
sleeping after these babies are discharged
home. It is especially important for babies
who are admitted to special or intensive
care nurseries to get used to sleeping
on their back before they are discharged.
Back sleeping needs to be introduced
as early as possible (i.e. as soon as baby
is medically stable and out of oxygen)
before discharge, in all maternity and
neonatal care facilities.
Parents of some babies with a rare
medical condition may be advised
by their doctor to sleep baby
on their side or tummy, but only
do so if your baby’s doctor advises
you in writing.