 | | | | Related Healthscout Videos | |
|
Page: << Prev | 1 | 2 "Putting babies to sleep on their back and not smoking are the two most important things to do," said Hauck, who recently completed a review of past research done on SIDS and the use of pacifiers.
Hauck's review found that for every 2,733 babies who slept with a pacifier, one SIDS death could be prevented.
"We don't know for sure why pacifiers reduce risk, but it may be that the infants who have a pacifier during sleep may be more arousable. They don't sleep as soundly. There are also some who believe it could be direct mechanical influence, that pacifiers might open the airway up," Hauck said.
Text Continues Below
Bottle-fed babies can start using a pacifier immediately, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that breast-feeding mothers wait until breast-feeding is well established before introducing a pacifier, at about one month, according to Hauck.
Batra emphasized that while pacifiers might have a slight protective effect, parents should focus on the baby's sleeping environment, both at home and in any other place the baby sleeps, such as a grandparent's home or at day care. He said about one in five SIDS deaths occurs outside the home.
"There are a few easy steps to reduce SIDS risk," said Batra. "Babies should always sleep on their backs. Tummy and side sleeping is not advised." Babies should sleep on firm mattresses with only a light covering. The room temperature should be comfortable for an adult, because overheating is a risk factor for SIDS.
Hauck said some parents are concerned that if they put their babies to sleep on their backs they might choke if they spit up, or they might develop a flat spot on the head from always sleeping in the same position. Both Batra and Hauck said there's no increased risk of choking for back-sleepers. And, if flat spots are a worry, Batra suggested that when the baby's awake to keep him or her out of the car seat and swing as much as possible. Hold the baby, or supervise tummy time when the baby's awake.
"The other way that's simple to do is alternate which end of the crib you place the baby to sleep in. They'll naturally turn their heads to noise and light," Hauck said.
More information
To learn more about how you can reduce your baby's risk of SIDS, visit the U.S. National Institute of Child Health & Human Development.
Page: << Prev | 1 | 2
|
.gif)
