SIDS Update

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) had an update of their guidelines for SIDS prevention beginning last year. The cause of SIDS ordinarily is when an infant’s breathing becomes hindered. For instance, when the baby breathes again his/her own exhaled air or when his/her head has been covered; the lack of oxygen will set off a stimulation response that brings about the baby’s change of breathing or crying. Some babies have an impaired capability to awaken from sleep when they come across a possible life-threatening situation.

The risk factors include sleeping on his/her tummy; sleeping on a soft surface; maternal smoking during pregnancy; overheating; late or not prenatal care; young age of the mother; preterm birth; low birth weight; and male gender.

The summary of AAP recommendations includes placing your infant on his/her back every time he/she sleeps. The significant risk of side-sleeping is now recognized and is not considered an acceptable alternative to being fully on his/her back. Another is using a firm crib mattress covered by a sheet. Keep soft materials and loose bedding out of your baby’s crib. Also, do not smoke during pregnancy and avoid exposing your infant to secondhand smoke. Have your infant sleep in your room but not in your bed. Use a pacifier when placing your infant down to sleep throughout the first year of life. Avoid overheating or overbundling your infant. He/she should be lightly clothed for sleep and the bedroom should be kept at a temperature comfortable for a lightly-clothed adult. Furthermore, provide upright cuddle time and encourage “tummy time” when your baby is awake and being observed in order to avoid flattening of the head from back-sleeping. Regularly alternate your baby’s head position when placing him/her to sleep. In addition, do not use commercial products marketed to reduce the risk of SIDS, as none has been adequately tested for safety or effectiveness.