Oh! Baby!

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under the age of 1. It is a blanket term for "We don't know why this healthy baby went to sleep, and didn't wake up" After more than 40 years, researchers still don't have the answer. However, we do know more about ways SIDS might be prevented:

1. It is believed that babies are less likely to die of SIDS if they sleep on their back.

• There has been a DECREASE IN SIDS since the recommendations of placing baby on her back to sleep have come out!

• If your child has a health condition which prevents him from sleeping on his back, talk to your health care provider.
• Millions of babies around the world now sleep on their backs, health care workers have NOT seen an increase in choking or other related problems.
• Although back sleeping is best, you MAY place baby on her side to sleep. Do make sure her lower arm is forward to prevent her from rolling onto her tummy.

• DO give baby "tummy time" while he is awake, this is good for baby!

2. Bedding ~ Baby needs a firm mattress or other firm surface to sleep on

• Don't let baby sleep on a water bed, sheepskin, pillow, or other soft materials.
• When baby is very young, do not place stuffed animals, fluffy blankets, comforters, or pillows in the crib. Babies have been known to smother with items like these.

3. Temperature

• Babies should be warm, but not too warm. Keep the temperature in baby's room at a level which is comfortable to you. The rule for clothing is-the same amount of layers or thickness of clothing you have on ~ plus one (usually a onesie is sufficient as your added layer). Blankets Count!

4. Smoke-free

• NO ONE should smoke around your baby. This means in the same house. If you or anyone in your home smokes, take it outside. It is also a good plan to cover yourself with a jacket, or extra shirt while you smoke, to remove when you come in. This might help in reducing the amount of smoke which stays in your clothing.
• Babies exposed to smoke have an increased risk for SIDS.

5. Regular doctor/clinic visits

• If your baby seems sick, call your health care provider right away. Make sure baby gets her immunizations on schedule

6. Prenatal Care

• Early and regular prenatal visits with a health care provider reduces the risk of SIDS.
• SIDS risk is higher for babies whose mothers smoke during pregnancy.

7. Consider a pacifier

• New studies are suggesting that babies who sleep with pacifiers may have a reduced risk for SIDS

8. Get certified in CPR ~ a good suggestion for ANY parent.

9. Talk to your health care provider if you feel your baby could be high risk.

• Today there are many types of monitors that will alert you if baby stops breathing.
  

Sadly, there are still more questions than answers when it comes to SIDS. Boys are more likely to be affected than girls, no one knows why. Family history of SIDS may increase baby's risk, again, no one knows why.
So while we may not know what causes it, you have been prepared with the tools to possibly prevent it. Like any other diseases or injuries which concern you, worrying will not help. Being prepared will. Do not let the fear of SIDS interfere with the joys of parenting your baby!