Health Tip: Who Shouldn't 'Cosleep' With an Infant

Smokers, drinkers should never share bed with a baby, experts say

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(HealthDay News) -- "Cosleeping" is the practice of letting babies sleep in bed with their parents, an older sibling or a caregiver.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has said the practice is dangerous for any child under 2 years old, according to the Nemours Foundation.

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Advocates of the practice dispute the agency's recommendation. Nonetheless, the Nemours Foundation says the following people should avoid cosleeping with an infant:

• Anyone who has consumed alcohol or used any drugs.
• Smokers (because of an increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome).
• Children, especially of toddler age, because they may inadvertently roll over on the baby.

Questions and concerns about cosleeping should be discussed with your child's pediatrician, the foundation says.

-- Diana Kohnle