We don't always understand what causes Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, but we know more and more about how to reduce the risk. Here are the right things to do.
Lay baby on back
We can't say it enough, even if your baby seems to sleep better on his stomach and even if your grandmother is worried that he will regurgitate in his sleep, you always have to put a baby on his back. Up to one year old, it is a very important step to take to prevent sudden infant death syndrome.
Choosing a good bed
A crib should be sturdy, have slats and a firm mattress suitable for the size of the crib. In addition, it is still possible to find in bazaars and attics beds that no longer have the regulatory space between the bars, which means that a baby could get his head stuck in them. When buying a used bed, make sure that the space between the bars does not exceed 6 cm.
Avoid Bed Contours
Bed bumpers can prevent a baby from breathing properly if they turn their head and get stuck there. Since this discomfort is suspected of causing cases of sudden infant death syndrome, these prettybumper pads are discouraged, as are pillows, duvets and blankets. Better to put baby on a well-fitting fitted sheet and in a regulation bed.
Practicing co-sleeping well
Co-sleeping is excellent for several reasons. It promotes bonding with parents, facilitates breastfeeding and increases the quality of your sleep. However, we must remember that co-sleeping consists of sharing the room, not necessarily the bed. If you do not have room to install the bunk in your room, there are beds designed for this purpose that are installed on the side of adult beds. It will be the best of both worlds.
Maintaining a smoke-free environment
Another risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is cigarette smoke. Avoid smoking in the house and ask visitors to smoke outside. This is very important for your baby. Moreover, according to UNICEF, it is not recommended for a mother who smokes to practice co-sleeping.
Avoid excessive heat
In a baby's room, keep the temperature between 18° and 20°. Overheating the room would significantly increase the risk of SIDS.
High temperatures during heat waves could also be among the causes of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. This is the hypothesis that emerges from a study carried out by a teamby researchers from the University of Montreal, which has just been published in the scientific journal Environmental He alth Perspectives. In fact, when the mercury reaches over 28°C in Montreal, the risk of a baby under the age of one dying suddenly is, on average, almost 2.8 times higher than when it is 20°C., based on data collected over 30 years, from 1981 to 2010.
A little exercise
When you get the chance, place your awake baby on his tummy so he can train his neck and arms. The stronger his muscles, the less likely he is to get stuck in a blanket.
Breastfeeding can protect your baby
According to The Public He alth Agency of Canada, breastfeeding, even for a short period of time, plays a role in preventing sudden infant death syndrome.
The pacifier in prevention?
Surprisingly, several studies conducted in the United States since 2005 have confirmed a link between pacifier use and less high risk of sudden infant death syndrome. However, specialists recommend only introducing the pacifier once breastfeeding is well established so as not to interfere with the baby's diet.
Watch out for the park
Even if a playpen is not as comfortable as a bed, it is better to avoid adding a mattress that is not designed for this purpose. As the dimensions are not the same, your babycould get stuck between the mattress and the edge of the playard and have difficulty breathing.
Watchfulness
Many mothers feel overwhelmed by all the information and advice given to them, but this advice has succeeded in significantly reducing the incidence of sudden infant death syndromein Canada. Since we became aware of the risk factors, the number of sudden deaths has fallen to less than 1 case per 2000 births. Better to follow the advice to the letter because a year goes by quickly!
