Killer Advice: Infant Sleep Experts Under Fire for Deadly Recommendations
A BBC investigation has raised alarm over infant sleep consultants accused of giving dangerous advice that contradicts established medical guidance on safe baby sleep.
A growing number of self-described baby sleep experts are facing criticism after being accused of offering unsafe advice that contradicts medical recommendations for infant care.
A recent BBC investigation uncovered cases where consultants allegedly advised parents to place newborns in risky sleep positions, despite long-standing medical guidance warning against such practices.
One consultant, Alison Scott-Wright, was reportedly recorded recommending front sleeping for newborns. This directly conflicts with official NHS safe sleep guidance, which advises parents to always place babies on their backs to sleep.
Medical experts warn that front sleeping significantly increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), also known as cot death, particularly during the first year of life.
Another consultant, Lisa Clegg, was criticised for allegedly recommending towels inside baby cots to mimic physical closeness. However, the Lullaby Trust safer sleep recommendations warn that loose items in cots can increase risks of overheating and suffocation.
The investigation also raised concerns over dietary advice given to breastfeeding mothers, including suggestions to remove dairy without medical consultation. Official NHS breastfeeding guidance recommends dietary restrictions only under professional supervision.
The controversy has reignited debate around the lack of regulation for sleep consultants and baby experts, many of whom operate privately without formal medical qualifications or oversight.
Child safety advocates say evidence-based campaigns such as the Back to Sleep initiative have significantly reduced infant deaths, highlighting the importance of medically approved sleep advice.
The issue gained additional urgency after the death of a four-month-old infant linked to unsafe sleep positioning, intensifying calls for stronger regulation in infant sleep consulting services.
Health officials are now facing pressure to tighten oversight and prevent unqualified individuals from marketing potentially dangerous baby care advice as expert guidance.