Sudden infant death syndrome, also referred to as crib death, is the reason listed for roughly 2,500 infant deaths in the United States each year. The actual reason for these deaths is unknown, however. Babies between the ages of 1 month and 1 year are susceptible to SIDS, the unforeseen death of an infant where the ultimate cause is not clear. Despite the unpredictability of this syndrome, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of crib death, including how your baby sleeps.
Correlation
Several studies have shown an increased occurrence of SIDS among babies who sleep on their stomachs over those who sleep on their backs. The American Academy of Pediatrics issued a recommendation in 1992 that babies younger than 1 year be placed only on their backs when sleeping. Prior to this suggestion, 70 percent of infants were estimated to sleep on their backs in the U.S. Less than 12 percent did so by 2002. In the same time period, the incidence of SIDS per 1,000 live births dropped from 1.2 deaths to .57, according to studies reported in "The New York Times."
Causation Theories
While the exact reason that stomach sleeping may lead to SIDS remains unclear, there are several theories. Some experts suggest a baby's jaw is under excess pressure when on the stomach, constricting the airway and hindering proper breathing. Others theorize a baby's nose and mouth are too enclosed by the mattress and bedding for continuous fresh air. Thus, the carbon dioxide being exhaled is inhaled again and the infant lacks sufficient oxygen. Another possibility is a defect in the area of the brain that involuntarily wakes up a baby when he is not getting enough oxygen. If this part of the brain does not work properly, a baby may not awaken to readjust the position of his face.
Prevention, Benefits and Exceptions
The American SIDS Institute suggests placing your baby on his back to sleep even if he sleeps better on his belly. Use a firm mattress with nothing on or around your infant. Soft mattresses, covers, pillows and toys can create the oxygen void believed to result in SIDS. Do not put your baby to sleep on a couch, chair or adult bed for the same reason. Dress your infant for sleep in an outfit that will keep him warm in a comfortable temperature without needing covers. When your baby is too warm, he may sleep too soundly and not wake up if a breathing issue occurs. Experts also recommend keeping your baby's crib or bassinet in your room until the child is at least 6 months old. Additional benefits of sleeping on the back include reduced instances of ear infections, congestion and fever, according to a study in the "Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine." If your baby suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease, speak to your pediatrician about the best sleeping position for him.
Other Risk Factors
In addition to those who sleep on their backs, babies exposed to smoke during or after pregnancy are also at risk for crib death. Drug and alcohol use during pregnancy may increase your baby's risk. Good prenatal care can reduce your baby's chances of SIDS, while premature birth or low birth weight may contribute to the risks.
