Baby Sleep Safety Tips

Question by Canadian Mothers Rock!:
Co sleeping specifics?
Let me start out by saying, I am fully aware of the dangers involved with co-sleeping and follow all the safety guidelines. I have fully researched this, and strongly feel that the emotional and developmental benifits to my son far outweigh the arguable risks (SIDS is called CRIB death, after all). It is suggested by all lactation consultants (my own feels it’s the only way to sleep, recommending it at our 2 week visit) and I even have the blessing of my family physician (it seems to be a supporter of breastfeeding also means supporting co-sleeping). I firmly believe in the “mommy instict” and know I will not roll onto my son. I know there will be lots of critics of this choice (I was one before I had a baby, even though my mother co-slept with all her babies), but it is an informed choice not made on a whim. My son also sleeps in his crib next to my bed 60% of the time, but spends time with me in the morning, the occasional night and during some joint naps.

There, hopefully that will curb some of the lectures I know I will get. Now on with my question.
I would like specifics from other mothers on how they do this. I lay in the nursing position and do not move, which means when I wake up my body is stiff, my arm is numb and my back hurts. I asked a friend who co-slept all night until her son was 2 and she said that’s the way it is. Anyone have some other positions?
Do you switch sides, so you feed from a different breast, or do you always feed fromthe same one? Is there a way to feed from the opposite breast?
Do you leave your baby in a sidelying position after feeding, or push them onto their back? (my son is 5 months, he just rolls himself back onto his side, but I would like to know for future babies)
I usually rest a hand on his hip or leg, or hold his hand. Sometimes I try wrapping my arm around him when he lays on his back – carefull to have my arm across his legs/waist so not to inhibit his breathing. Do other mothers do this, or do you keep your hands to yourself?
Any other tips?
Thanks so much! With all I have read, no one ever speaks about he specifics and I’d appreciate input from other moms.

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