feeding, sleeping and crying
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
You've probably heard about the tragic phenomenon known as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS. It's still claiming the lives of about 6,000 babies each year in the United States alone.
This killer has mystified medical researchers. Now a study conducted by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in collaboration with researchers at the University of Maryland and Washington University — St. Louis, has shed light on the issue. The epidemiologist who directed the investigation, Dr. N. J. Shear, said, "We have not found a cause for SIDS, but our results show that specific items of bedding used in the U.S., such as comforters and pillows, were associated with an increased risk for death to prone sleeping infants whose faces became covered."
This means that babies should not be placed on their stomachs in soft bedding. That precaution will lessen the likelihood that they will rebreathe their own carbon dioxide that's trapped in the blankets and pillows around them. In about 30 percent of the 206 SIDS deaths in the research project, babies were found with bedding pressed against their noses and mouths. The advice now being offered by doctors is that parents place their infants on their backs, not on their stomachs, and that a minimum amount of loose bedding be kept in the crib.
This advice won't eliminate all cases of SIDS, but it could save hundreds, if not thousands, of lives every year.
Background Information
Breast to Bottle
These tips can help make a smooth transition for both Mom and baby.
Ready for Meat and Potatoes
If a couple of teeth erupt before six months of age (the usual time of the first appearance of teeth), this in itself is not a sign that your baby is ready for pizza.
Why Won't They Eat?
One of life's greatest mysteries is how a preschooler can survive on three spaghetti noodles, half a banana and a graham cracker for an entire day!
Questions and Answers
Should a parent try to force a child to eat?
Answer
What are "night terrors?"
Answer
What causes a child to wet the bed?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Children: Are They Worth It?
Children can be demanding, frustrating and exhausting. But they can also be a tremendous source of positive change in our lives.
Related Topics
Transitions: Having a Baby, Preparing for Adolescence
Life Pressures: Working Moms, Stay-At-Home Moms, Time for Family
Relationships: Parents and Adult Children, Blended Families
