To Co-Sleep or Not to Co-Sleep: The Pros and Cons

December 09, 2021

Photo credit Kendra Wesley

Co-sleeping is a topic that has been widely debated among parents and healthcare professionals for decades. On one hand, proponents of co-sleeping argue that it helps to strengthen the bond between mother and baby and can be more convenient for the mother, who does not have to get out of bed to feed the baby during the night. On the other hand, opponents of co-sleeping argue that it can be dangerous for the baby and can disrupt the parents' sleep patterns, leading to exhaustion and decreased functioning during the day. In order to make an informed decision about whether or not to co-sleep, it is important to understand the pros and cons of this practice.

Pros of Co-Sleeping:

1. Bonding: Co-sleeping allows for increased physical contact between mother and baby, which can help to strengthen the bond between them. This close proximity can also promote the release of hormones that promote bonding and attachment, such as oxytocin.

2. Convenience: Co-sleeping can be much more convenient for the mother, who does not have to get out of bed to feed the baby during the night. This can be especially beneficial for mothers who are recovering from childbirth and need as much rest as possible.

3. Easier breastfeeding: For mothers who choose to breastfeed, co-sleeping can make it easier to feed the baby during the night, since they do not have to get out of bed. This can be especially beneficial for mothers who are trying to establish a good breastfeeding routine.

Cons of Co-Sleeping:

1. Safety concerns: One of the biggest concerns associated with co-sleeping is the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). While there is no definitive answer as to what causes SID, it is believed that there is a higher risk of SID when a baby is sleeping with an adult.

2. Disrupted sleep: Co-sleeping can also be disruptive to the sleep patterns of both the baby and the parents. This can be especially true for parents who are light sleepers and find it difficult to sleep when the baby is moving or making noises.

3. Independence: Co-sleeping can make it more difficult for the baby to develop a sense of independence and self-soothing. This is because the baby may become dependent on the presence of the parent to fall asleep, which can make it more difficult for the baby to sleep on their own as they get older.

4. Decreased intimacy: For some couples, co-sleeping can lead to decreased intimacy and can make it more difficult for them to have a private, intimate relationship.

In conclusion, whether or not to co-sleep is a decision that each family must make based on their individual circumstances and needs. While co-sleeping can offer many benefits, such as increased bonding and convenience, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and downsides of this practice, such as the risk of SID and disrupted sleep. Before making a decision about co-sleeping, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider and to carefully consider all of the pros and cons.