What We All Fear, But Can Never Imagine

SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is and will always be a freighting topic for families to discuss, especially those who have welcomed a new born baby into their lives. Unfortauntely, I know of someone who experienced a sudden infant death and I can’t begin to explain how difficult that was.

SIDS is an unexplained death that usually occurs while the infant is sleeping in the early stages of their lives. Unfortunately, medical professionals are unable to identify the root cause of SIDS; however, there are many factors that may put your infant in risk of SIDS.

When providing consultation services to families, I will discuss the topic of creating a SAFE sleep environment for their baby. A few ways you can reduce the risk of SIDS is below:

Babies under one should never be placed on their tummy. Of course, if they are already rolling over, it is okay for them to stay on their tummies, but otherwise no.

Your baby should always sleep on a firm mattress as a soft mattress or comforter can block a baby’s airway.

There should be no blankets, bumpers or lose sheets in your baby’s sleep space until they are one as this can cause suffocation.

Sharing a bed with a newborn certainly increases the risk of SIDS for obviously reasons. As adults we can roll, kick, and push etc., which is obviously dangerous when you have a 12lb baby sleeping next to you. Try creating an environment that allows room sharing and not bed sharing.

SIDS is a topic we must all keep at the back of our minds. We must caution ourselves and ensure we are limiting the risk right from the early stages of a baby’s life. Remember, you health care provider will be able to answer any questions or concerns you have on this topic, so don’t hesitate to ask.

Anita Patel
Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant
info@hushbabyhush.com
(416) 885-2235
www.hushbabyhush.com

March 27, 2018