Preventing SIDS In Sleeping Baby

NEW Recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics

When parents bring home a newborn, the responsibility to care and protect that little baby is very real. So when a child dies from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS, it is an unimaginable tragedy. While there is still much to be learned about SIDS, the American Academy of Pediatrics recognizes that more must be done to keep a baby safe while sleeping, so there are updated guidelines for parents.The most recent change in guidelines was the "Back to Sleep" campaign, which made a significant reduction in cases of SIDS. Babies have a harder time breathing when laying on their belly or side, so it was recommended that all babies be put on their backs when sleeping.Now, in addition to this recommendation, the AAP is suggesting parents provide a safe sleeping space in the parent's bedroom for the first year, or, at the very least, the first 6 months. Co-sleeping in the parents bed is not recommended, because the heavy blankets and pillows can cause breathing difficulties to an infant. This recommendation comes as the Academy recognizes the fatigue of new parents, and that many were taking their child to a couch or recliner for nighttime feedings, but then falling asleep there. Those spaces with their soft cushions are even more dangerous for babies. They hope that providing a safe sleeping space in the parent's bedroom will enable them to put the child down in their own bed after feedings.A safe sleeping space is defined by a crib or bassinet that has a snug-fitting sheet, and a lightweight blanket if necessary. There should be no heavy blankets, pillows, bumper pads, or stuffed animals.Parents can also reduce the risk of SIDS by breastfeeding the baby when possible, using a pacifier, and keeping the child away from second-hand smoke.According to the Center for Disease Control, 1,500 infants die from SIDS each year. Thankfully that number is decreasing, from 130.3 deaths per 100,000 live births in 1990 to 38.7 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2014. SIDS is a devastating thing to happen to a family, so the AAP has updated these guidelines in an attempt to prevent even more of these cases. If you have questions or concerns about SIDS, contact us.