Facts on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexplained death of an infant before the age of 12months.
* SIDS is the leading cause of death in infants under 1yr old
* SIDS happens most between two to four months, and the majority of SIDS deaths occur before 6mths of age
* In the USA approximately 2500 infants die each year
* The number of infants dying from SIDS has slowly decreased since 1980
* Since 1994 SIDS deaths have decreased by nearly half – since the introduction of the “Back to Sleep” program – (baby sleeping on their back)
* Tends to happen more in cold winter months
* A baby sleeping in a Cigarette smoking environment is more at risk.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome cannot be explained though Researchers are constantly trying to find the cause.
The facts on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome show that there are things you can do to Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
* Place your baby on their back to sleep – at all times
* Your newborn’s sleeping crib is most important so - Set your newborn’s sleeping crib up safely – remove crib bumpers, pillows, toys, duvets, comforters etc – so that there is good ventilation where your baby sleeps
* Do not smoke around your baby, and ensure their sleeping area is free of cigarette smoke
* Ensure that your newborn’s sleeping crib has a firm, well – fitting mattress.
* Place your baby’s feet at the bottom end of the crib – and make up the covers as if you were making a bed – ensure that your baby’s face remains uncovered
* Letting baby sleep with you is not recommended if: you sleep on a soft mattress; or water bed; or have fluffy covers or pillows your baby can be exposed to; if you are obese, or have been using drugs or medications that may affect your sleep. In the first six months of life - it has been found that a baby who sleeps in the same room as a responsible adult - reduces the risk of SIDS. Make sure you do not fall asleep on the couch with your baby - as this increases the risk of SIDS.
- * Make sure your baby will not overheat from over wrapping, or the room too hot. If possible, keep the room temperature about 18°- 20°C (65°F - 68°F)
In our New Parents Videos area - we have a dvd: "Newborn Parenting for a New World" which shows all aspects of newborn safety - including how to prevent infant death syndrome.
