Let’s cut to the chase: as a new parent, everything feels like a high-stakes decision, especially when it comes to sleep. You’ve probably Googled “Can a newborn sleep on her side” a dozen times, and the answers might feel conflicting. Here’s the deal: Major health organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) are crystal clear—back sleeping is the safest position for babies under 1 year old. But what about those sweet, squishy moments when your little one rolls or curls onto their side naturally? Let’s talk about why newborn side sleeping isn’t just a casual choice—it’s a safety priority.

Is It OK for Babies to Be Put to Sleep on Their Sides?

Short answer? No. Even if Grandma swears her kids slept on their sides (or tummies!) just fine, we know better now. Decades of research link back sleeping to a dramatic drop in SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) rates. When you intentionally place a newborn on their side, even propped with blankets or pillows, they’re at higher risk of rolling onto their tummy or getting into a position where their airway gets blocked. And yes, this includes those “cute” napping photos you see online—safety over aesthetics, always.

But what if your baby wriggles into a side position on their own? If they’re developmentally able to roll (usually around 4–6 months), it’s generally safe to let them stay as long as you start them on their Back in a crib free of loose bedding, toys, or bumpers. For newborns, though? They lack the strength to reposition themselves if their breathing is compromised. So, if you’re wondering, “Can a newborn sleep on her side?”—the answer is a firm no, even if she seems cosy there.

Why Shouldn’t Babies Sleep on Their Sides?

• Side sleeping is statistically riskier than back sleeping. It’s like leaving a tiny, unpredictable gap in their safety net.

• A newborn’s airway is about the width of a straw. Even a slight tilt can compress it, especially if their chin tucks to their chest.

• Newborns lack muscle control. If placed on their side, gravity might nudge them face-down into the mattress.

• Newborn side sleeping can also contribute to plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) since their soft skulls are still shaping.

You might think, “But my baby spits up—won’t they choke on their back?” Nope! Babies have a reflex to clear fluids, and back sleeping actually reduces choking risks. If reflux is a concern, talk to your pediatrician about elevating the head of the crib slightly—not placing the baby on their side.

The “Can a newborn sleep on her side” question isn’t just about preference—it’s about giving your baby the safest start. While it’s tempting to follow well-meaning (but outdated!) advice or mimic what “works” for others, sticking to the ABCs of sleep—Alone, on their Back, in a Crib—is the gold standard.

If you’re struggling with a baby who fusses on their Back, try swaddling (until they show signs of rolling) or a pacifier at bedtime. And remember: this phase is temporary. Before you know it, they’ll be rolling, crawling, and tossing themselves into wild sleep positions—and you’ll laugh (or cry!) about how much you overthought this. Until then, keep that tiny human on their Back, take a deep breath, and know you’re doing great.