You've probably heard that "mother knows best," however, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics this might not be the case. In the past it was common for mothers to lay their babies down to sleep on their stomachs. However, AAP officials say this could contribute to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, also known as SIDS or crib death, something that affects babies one-year-old and under.

Since making the recommendation to lay babies on their backs in 1992, the number of SIDS deaths has dropped 40 percent.

Pediatrician, Dr. Lara Ross with the Family Medical Clinic in Meridian says although sleeping on the stomach is the most dangerous position, babies sleeping on their sides is not much better.

"The side sleeping would cause them to role on their belly which we know is more dangerous when it comes to SIDS."

Although many questions remain about what causes SIDS, Dr. Ross says factors such as second hand smoke, and babies getting too hot are thought to also play a role. Other things that can pose a danger are big toys and thick comforters placed in cribs. All of these are items, which doctors say can obstruct breathing. To combat this:

"Really just put a light blanket or no blanket at all on the bed. If they do have a blanket it should be probably tucked on the end of the bed and the sides and probably just kind of below their waist."

For people who want to place their baby on his stomach, Dr. Ross suggest that you place you baby on his belly for 'tummy time' during the day while he is awake. By following these tips, doctors say you can greatly increase your chances of having a happy and healthy baby.

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