Objective. To explore the socioeconomic determinants of bedsharing among Oregon mothers.  Bedsharing is a common but controversial practice. 

Methods. Oregon Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) surveys a stratified random sample of women after a live birth. In 1998-1999, 1867 women completed the survey (73.5% weighted response). Bedsharing was categorized as frequently (almost always or always) or infrequently (sometimes or never).

Results. Of new mothers, 35.0% reported bedsharing frequently and 65.0% infrequently respectively (always = 20.5%, almost always = 14.7%, sometimes = 41.4% and never = 23.4%). A number of socioeconomic factors were associated with bedsharing in univariable logistic analysis.  In adjusted analysis, non-Hispanic blacks (ORa 3.15, 95% CI 2.06 – 4.83) and Asians (ORa 2.15, 95% CI 1.52 – 3.04), Hispanics (ORa 1.70, 95% CI 1.18 – 2.45), women who breastfeed at least 4 weeks (ORa 2.63, 95% CI 1.70 – 4.06), have incomes less than $15,000 (ORa 2.26, 95% CI 1.23 – 4.14) or between $15,000-29,999 (ORa 2.55, 95% CI 1.47 – 4.44), or are single (ORa 1.59, 95% CI 1.05 – 2.40) were more likely to bedshare.

Conclusions. Bedsharing is common in Oregon.  The women most likely to bedshare are single, breastfeeding and low-income. In addition, black and Asian mothers are more likely to bedshare than non-Hispanic white women, suggesting that cultural factors are important.  The relative importance of socio-cultural preference should be explored further.  Cultural values should not be imposed on diverse groups; crib use should be a choice, not a mandate. Recommendations regarding bedsharing must be based on sound epidemiologic evidence.