Are you wondering if swaddling is right for your baby? Learn the correct method to help your baby sleep.

Swaddling: A Guide for New Parents

As the months lead you in becoming a new parent, you will try to prepare yourself as much as you can. You probably will find a wealth of information and conflicting opinions regarding a variety of parenting issues. One of the issues that you will need to know the truth about is swaddling. Is it safe for newborns? Would it help your baby sleep? Here, we lay out key information about swaddling.

Swaddling Is Safe When Done Correctly

If you want to help your baby calm down and sleep peacefully, swaddling can help. While it does not come without risk, swaddling is an effective method to soothe your baby when you follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines:

• Lay the blanket flat with a single corner folded down.
• Place your baby on the blanket face up with the head above the corner.
• Straighten your baby’s left arm then wrap the blanket’s left corner over the body, tucking it between the right side of the body and right arm.
• Tuck your baby’s right arm down then fold the blanket’s right corner over the body and under the left side.
• Twist or fold the bottom of the blanket and loosely tuck it under one side.
• Ensure your baby can move his or her hips–don’t make the blanket too tight.

Remember to practice AAP safe sleep recommendations to prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

We are always here for our patients, if you have any questions contact the office of SuraMed Health Center PA at 561-275-7100. Our friendly staff will assist you with any questions or concerns.