Sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS, is terrifying for a parent. But being educated about it may help to save a life. SIDS is the sudden death of a baby under 1 that cannot be explained. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 1,500 infants died of SIDS in 2013.
Risk factors
Dr. Daphne Wong of Children’s Hospital of Orange County lists these SIDS risk factors: Low birth weight, exposure to smoke, overheating due to excessive blankets in the crib or covering the infant’s head, and having the baby sleep in your bed or on a couch rather than on a firm, clutter-free crib mattress. “Using wedges or things that are marketed to keep a baby in a certain position are not recommended,” Wong said.
Preventive measures
Place the baby on her back to sleep. Putting your infant to sleep on her back is one of the most effective methods of decreasing SIDS risk.
Use a firm surface. “Leave the baby on a firm surface and do not use a car seat or other device that is not recommended for routine sleeping,” Wong says.
Use a pacifier. “A pacifier has also been shown to be good because it is thought to make the baby more easy to arouse and not sleep as deeply, so if he has a problem he can wake up more (easily),” Wong said.
Clear crib clutter. Don’t leave pillows or stuffed animals in the crib. Crib bumpers are also discouraged.
Don’t overheat your baby. Try a sleep sack or sleep clothing rather than blankets.
Sleep in the same room. Have your infant nearby but keep him in his crib.
Breastfeed, if possible. Studies have shown that breastfeeding for at least six months can lower the risk of SIDS.
Don’t smoke. And don’t allow others to smoke around your infant.
Strengthen muscles. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends supervised, awake tummy time to help your infant develop and to prevent a flat head.
