Creating a safe sleeping environment
Sudden
infant death syndrome (SIDS), also referred to as crib
death, is a terrible phenomenon whereby babies die suddenly (usually while
sleeping) for no obvious reason. Although SIDS rates have fallen by around 50
percent in the last 25 years, around 2,500 babies still suffer a crib death
each year in the US.
The
risk is higher in families living in difficult circumstances or for children of
smokers. Premature and low birthweight babies are also at higher risk, as are
baby boys. Most deaths occur before the age of six months. Research has
revealed several factors that have an impact on this kind of infant mortality
and there are certain safe sleeping recommendations in place to help reduce the
risk of such a tragedy occurring:
1. Don’t smoke
This
has been shown to increase the risk of SIDS. If you or anybody else in your
family must smoke, do it outside the house, definitely not in the same room as
your baby, and especially not the room she’s going to sleep in. Also, avoid
visiting smoky places.
2. Sleep your baby on her back
Your
baby’s sleeping position is vital. It’s now accepted
that the safest position for your baby to sleep in is on her back (the old
habit of sleeping babies on their fronts has been linked with a higher risk of
SIDS). Ensure that her feet are at the bottom of the crib so she can’t wriggle
under her blankets.
3. Keep her cool
The
next factor that raises the risk of SIDS is temperature. Don’t let your baby get too
hot. This means checking the heating is not too high and that she has the right
amount of blankets to keep her warm – which will likely be less than you think
but don’t be tempted to bundle her up. The room temperature should be 65-68
degrees. If your baby is feverish, reduce her covering to help her regulate her
body temperature.
4. Think carefully about co-sleeping
Parents
are usually advised not to share a bed with their baby if either one of them
are smokers, have been drinking alcohol, are on drugs or medication, are very
tired or if their baby was born prematurely or was small at birth. The baby may
also roll out of bed and be injured or become caught between the wall and the
bed. Parents are also advised never to fall asleep with a baby on an armchair
or couch, as there’s a risk you could roll over and suffocate your baby.
Why
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The information in this feature is intended for
educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the
health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a
doctor or other healthcare professional.
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Last Modified: 19/06/2007
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