Baby sleeping on her side

[LifeofByron]

Hi, my 5 month DD has quite a flat head (symmetrically flat across the back - positional plagiocephaly I think it's called) and a friend who happens to be a maternity nurse suggested putting her down for her daytime naps on her side, with rolled up towels holding her in place so she doesn't flip on to front or back (she can't roll yet anyway). I am nervous - obviously because of the "back to sleep" SIDS issue. I have only ever put her down to sleep on her back in the past. Is side sleeping dangerous? Re the flat head, I make sure that she is not on her back literally every minute she is not asleep or having her nappy changed so she spends loads of time in a sling, bumbo, doorway bouncer etc etc. I've also just got a Goi Goi pillow (she's too big for the love nest thing). Should I ignore the side sleeping advice, given that the flat head (as I understand it) is cosmetic issue only?

No idea but just sending you for your wonderful talk name...

Thanks WilfSell! I'm always looking on the bright side of life but I'm going no more a-roving these days that's for sure....

Can't really help - no experience yet I'm afraid, but the latest leaflet from the Dept of Health re: reducing risk of SIDS say "side-sleeping is not as safe". It does also say that the plagiocephaly will become rounder again as baby grows.

2009 leaflet here

Thanks Juwesm that's helpful

Our DS had this as a baby and we too bought a goi goi pillow which was brilliant. We also re-positioned him during the day just as you are doing. All I can say is that it did get better with time and he is now nearly 3 and has a lovely shaped head!

Thanks mumto2babes- that's very encouraging. I think I can see improvement already (although it could be wishful thinking....) but I do feel there is some rounding out starting to appear. I have my fingers crossed. But she's absolutely gorgeously happy and healthy so I'm just trying not to focus on it. It will help once she has some hair!