What is SIDS?

Commonly referred to as ‘cot or crib death’ or in medical terms Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).  SIDS is the most common cause of death in infants between one week and one year of age. It occurs in all countries and socio-economic groups. The prevalence of SIDS in South Africa is approximately 3.7 per 1000 live births. 

In some of these cases, death may indeed be sudden and unexpected, but in many cases there are prior symptoms which could have been recognised by the primary caretaker.

Who is at risk of SIDS?

According to the Safe Sleep campaign, the following factors can put a baby at a higher risk of dying from SIDS:

• Babies who sleep on their stomachs.
• Babies who usually sleep on their back but is put on their stomachs for a nap are more at risk.
• Sleeping on soft surfaces such as adult beds, couches, etc.
• Getting too hot during sleep.
• Sleeping on/under bedding that is loose.
• Babies who are exposed to cigarette smoke whether it was while in the womb, their home or any other environment
• Babies shouldn’t sleep with their parents, pets or other kids. Bed-sharing with a baby younger than 11 to 14 weeks old is an added risk.
• Immunisation doesn’t increase your baby’s risk of SIDS.

How can I reduce my baby’s risk of SIDS?

According to Mediclinic Infohub, you can decrease your baby’s risk of SIDS by following these guidelines:

• Always put your baby on their back when they sleep or nap.
• Your baby should sleep on a firm and flat surface. The best under-blanket to use on a wrapped mattress is fleecy cotton.
• Don’t overdress your baby and make sure that their head isn’t covered when they sleep.
• Don’t smoke during and after your pregnancy. Keep your baby in a smoke-free zone.
• Sleep in the same room as your baby but not in the same bed. You can keep your child close to you by keeping them in a bassinet or cot next to your bed.
• When your baby is awake put the baby on their tummy to strengthen their back and shoulders. This must be done while the baby is being supervised.
• Educate everyone that will be looking after your baby on how to care for your child in terms of SIDS risk-reduction.

Remember that SIDS isn’t caused by immunisations, cots/cribs, child abuse or neglect. You can’t prevent it, but you can reduce the risks.

How can we help?

At Creatorishop we want to put you in the best position to have hospital-grade care at home. Helping you to take care of and monitor your baby within the comfort of your own home. We aim to bring the hospital to you – say hello to the Baby Oxygen and Heart Rate Monitor. A device that makes it easy to monitor your baby’s oxygen and heart rate using the built in audible alarm that alerts you to low levels and the smart app.

Now you can spot any irregularities and problems early and before it is too late.

Get your Baby Oxygen and Heart Rate Monitor here.