Belly sleeping

[Conifer]

My baby is 5 weeks old and seems really uncomfortable sleeping on his back. He wakes up a lot especially at night (which I know is normal at this stage). If I put him on his belly he sleeps for 2-3 hours, wakes up to eat and then goes back to sleep. He has really good head control, very healthy and is very strong. Is it really bad that I let him sleep on his tummy? I feel guilty but when he sleeps on his back he squiggles and throws his arms all around. I try to swaddle him, but it just makes him mad. Tell me I'm not a horrible parent!!!

BTW he sleeps in our room in a bassinet and he comes into our bed around 5:00am.

[Blueone]

My son started belly sleeping at 4 weeks and he slept so well! I do it, but it's ultimately up to you. If it works though, that might be a good sign.

[columbusmomma]

My DD started sleeping on her tummy before 1 month. I agree with what the PP said.

[perezia]

well, my friend who has a 6 days older son than my son is and he said he doesn't let his son sleep on his stomach because that won't allow the baby's digestive system finish developing.

i don't know about that. i know many babies who sleep on their stomachs and they are fine!

[fireHC11]

Have you tried putting your baby to sleep on his side? It's safer than the tummy (as far as SIDS statistics).

[odoole]

Originally Posted by fireHC11

Have you tried putting your baby to sleep on his side? It's safer than the tummy (as far as SIDS statistics).

Agreed. Side sleeping has worked well for my son with reflux. He HATED his back. He's better about back sleeping now, but still sleeps better on his side.

Also, a woombie or some other swaddle can help with the startle reflex that wakes them up on their back. I know your son said he gets mad, but he may just need to get used to it. My son gets mad as we're putting it on, but then calms down and ultimately sleeps better with it on.