The exact cause of sudden infant death syndrome, or SIDS, remains unknown despite years of intense research and the development of some really good theories. Unfortunately, the lack of clarity contributes to a lot of misinformation and unhealthy practices that may end up placing infants at greater risk. Let’s take a closer look at SIDS and how to reduce the chances of experiencing this tragedy first-hand.
Multiple Causes
One thing that research has shown is that there are multiple causes of SIDS, and some are biological whereas others are situational. Some newer studies suggest that genetic deformities may place infants at greater risk. Others suggest that anomalies in the developing brain cause it to happen. Some also link SIDS with respiratory deformities whereas others point to problems with the circulatory system. This should reinforce the notion that there is no one-size-fits all cause or solution to this tragic occurrence.
On the situational side, how the infant is placed before sleep can contribute to SIDS whereas deaths also occur when they become entangled in crib accessories, bedding or toys. Fortunately, most of these deaths can be prevented simply by putting the infant in an empty crib. However, constant monitoring of sleeping infants may be necessary if they have health-related problems that place them at greater risk. Another surprising risk factor is when non-parents care for infants. Studies have shown that babysitters, siblings or caregivers are more-likely to leave infants in dangerous situations as they sleep. While most of these are completely-unintentional, they still represent about 20% of SIDS-related deaths.
Best Practices
While there may not be a universal “fix” that can eradicate SIDS, we can dramatically reduce risk by ensuring that the infant is sleeping in a safe environment. The first, and most important rule, is to never let an infant sleep on their bellies in a crib. Always place them on their backs because this makes breathing easier. It also makes it easier for parents to hear sounds from the infant that may alert them to a problem.
Second, never let infants sleep in cribs that contain toys, animals or bedding that can cause them to suffocate. Empty cribs with a sturdy mattress is the safest bet, and it’s also inadvisable to provide infants with pillows as well. While an infant may look cute and cuddly when they’re bundled up or surrounded by these materials, any one of these items can be deadly.
It’s also a good idea to avoid using baby monitors to keep an ear on what’s happening in the other room. Monitors are not smart or sensitive enough to detect when an infant is going into a SIDS-related problem, and they can also produce a lot of false-alarms that can desensitize parents as well. Many experts recommend that parents put the infant in a crib in their bedroom instead, because this places them in a better position to keep an eye on their little ones as they sleep.
Finally, adult mattresses are not safe for infants under 6 months old, and smothering is one of the leading causes of SIDS deaths. As tempting as it may seem, try to avoid bringing the little one to bed with you.
Remember that the vast-majority of SIDS deaths can be avoided by following these and other common-sense precautions. While biology plays a role in some cases, environmental factors still remain the largest killer, and it’s important to be vigilant and attentive when it comes to providing a safe place for infants to sleep.
