Does a child sleeping on their stomach indicate a problem?

May 03, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ma Yan
Introduction
It is usually not a cause for concern if a child sleeps on their stomach. There are no strict requirements for a child's sleeping position; after birth, they can sleep on their side, on their back, or on their stomach—these are all considered safe sleeping positions and generally do not significantly affect the development of internal organs. If a child has bloating or abdominal pain, sleeping on the stomach may help relieve discomfort. However, bedding should be adjusted appropriately to avoid any risk to breathing.

It is usually not a cause for concern if a child sleeps on their stomach. The detailed explanation is as follows:

In general, there are no strict requirements regarding a child's sleeping position. After birth, children may sleep on their side, on their back, or on their stomach—these are all considered normal and safe sleeping positions that typically do not significantly affect the development of internal organs. If a child experiences bloating or abdominal pain, sleeping on the stomach may even help relieve discomfort. However, parents should closely supervise their child when they sleep on their stomach, and ensure proper arrangement of bedding to prevent the nose or mouth from being covered by bedding materials, which could obstruct breathing or lead to suffocation and other adverse events.

Parents are advised to avoid overly soft bedding for their child and should not place excessive plush toys or other stuffed items around the child during sleep, to prevent any potential interference with breathing.