Overdressing a baby and the risk of SIDS

SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) is the death of a healthy infant under 1 year of age that cannot be explained even by autopsy. It is the main cause of death of infants from 1 month to 1 year. It usually occurs at or before 6 months and usually not in the first month of life. SIDS claims the lives of about 2,500 babies a year. It’s devastating when a father goes to check on his baby and finds him dead. They blame themselves as there is no medical reason for the baby’s death. Parents were once told to put babies to sleep on their stomachs. In 1992, parents were advised to put babies to sleep on their backs or sides. SIDS rates dropped dramatically. SIDS occurs most often in the winter months with the peak in January. There are usually no symptoms or warnings with SIDS deaths.

The baby is a normal healthy baby. There is no particular cause for these deaths, but several factors have been linked to SIDS. The last possible cause of SIDS is overdressing your baby. If you dress or cover your baby in infant clothing so that they do not lose heat, then the baby could overheat. It seems that when some babies get overheated they stop breathing. You need to dress your baby appropriately. The layer of clothing that keeps you warm will probably keep your baby warm as well. If you’re comfortable in a jacket, your baby is probably too snug. The baby will not need additional layers of clothing and blankets. Check if your baby feels too hot.

There are other risk factors for SIDS. Smoking during pregnancy is a major risk factor for SIDS. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, do not smoke. Breastfeeding also reduces the risk of SIDS. Sleeping on a firm mattress and giving your baby a pacifier at night can also help reduce SIDS-related deaths. To help reduce the risk of SIDS, wait at least one year between pregnancies. Start your pregnancy off right with good prenatal care. SIDS is not caused by vaccines and is not hereditary. SIDS is not predictable nor is it anyone’s fault. All parents must take a CPR class. Some hospitals will not allow you to take your baby home until she has done this. If your baby is not breathing or moving, call 911 and start CPR.