P035 Understanding cosleeping arrangements, motivations and satisfaction with sleep location in cosleeping mothers

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Nighttime infant care practices differ across the globe. In western cultures, where independent solitary sleep is the norm, there is an expectation that parental presence at bedtime is minimized in favour of teaching children independent sleep initiation, maintenance, and resumption skills. In non-western cultures, parental presence at bedtime and overnight is the accepted norm. Despite and against current safe-sleep recommendations, rates of co-sleeping and bed-sharing are increasing in western countries. The purpose of this study was to understand motivations and satisfaction with mother’s choice to engage in co-sleeping. Methods Using an internet-based survey, this cross-sectional study aimed to understand mothers’ (n=3298) motivations to engage in co-sleeping (includes room-sharing and bed-sharing), and the satisfaction with their sleep arrangements. Results Quantitative analysis reported on the variability in co-sleeping arrangements, intentions, preference and satisfaction with the child (under 12 years) current sleep location. Qualitative analysis reported on parent’s motivation to engage in cosleeping and reasons for dissatisfaction with the sleeping arrangement. Discussion and Conclusion The results of the study overwhelmingly highlights the need for education and information for parents who want to engage in overnight proximal sleeping arrangements with their children. The study lends support to adopt risk minimization approach when providing safe sleep related information to parents. Findings will help inform clinical delivery of culturally appropriate and safe practices to ensure safe sleeping, and enable parents to make informed choices in relation to their children sleep location.