To Snoo or Not to Snoo

I get asked a lot of interesting questions. “How long will labor take?” “ Are you available for an overnight tonight?” Or “ Is it ok to use the snoo?” The conundrum within that last question is typically formed around the guilt over not soothing the baby oneself and/ or if the movement of the snoo is harmful.

 The snoo came out 10/18/2016 and for nearly 10 years, it has been a real savior for many new parents. This benchmark of bassinets contains a system of finely calibrated sensors that react to the baby’s sounds and movements which will respond with increased motion and louder white noise. The snoo allows for variability in which you can adjust the speed settings as well as the white noise volume. It’s an effective method for soothing a fussy baby back to sleep but to some this may seem too mechanical, too harsh, or too unstudied. What are the long lasting effects of this contraption?

The first babies introduced to the snoo are now 10 years old and in 5th grade -a good amount of time to study a population. One prominent fear I often encounter is the concern of the constant motion and the potential for long term unknown harm. Does it affect brain development, or the vestibular system, or psychological entities? Other concerns have been the high price for the short term use or evidence of mold on refurbished snoo

s in the second hand market. 

The bottom line is having help to soothe a baby whether it is from a human or a machine is personal preference but can make a huge difference for the parents emotionally and physically. With any product, it is important to follow the guidelines and understand the options it offers. 

My opinion?... Ultimately it comes down to personal choice based on the facts that are available and trusting what you are comfortable with. Either way, pursuing or hesitating, you’re a good parent taking all the options into consideration!