Cot Death & Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

What Are Cot Death & Sudden Infant Death Syndrome? (SIDS)

Cot death is the sudden and unexpected death of a baby that can not be explained before an investigation has been carried out.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden and unexpected death of a baby that has no specific cause after an investigation has been carried out.

One in 1500 babies die in this way in the first year of life, most commonly between the ages of one and four months old.

What Happens After A Baby Has Suffered A Cot Death?

An investigation into the cause of death is carried out after a cot death.The police will also come round to collect information, Both of these procedures are standard in the UK after a baby or young child has died.In more than half of cot deaths the cause of death can not be explained even after the post mortem examination. When this happens the death is registered as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Does A Cot Death Baby Suffocate?

Research indicates that SIDS deaths are caused by a breathing failure, but it is difficult to be more specific. Possible causes include suffocation, overheating and choking and further research is taking place all the time.

SIDS babies die peacefully in their sleep. There are no signs of struggle of distress. Although known as ot death, it can take place anywhere, in their pram or the arms of their parents.

Are Some Babies More Susceptible To Cot Death And Sudden Infant Death Syndrome?

Research indicates that whilst cot death and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome can happen to any baby, some are more susceptible. These include:-

premature babies
low birth-weight babies
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome happens more in the winter months and we believe there may be a temperature link.

How Can I Reducing The Risk Of Cot Death And Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Whilst it is not possible to completely protect babies from cot death and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome it is possible to reduce the risks.

do not smoke during pregnancy
do not let anyone smoke in the same room as your baby
if your baby is unwell seek medical advice promptly.
lie your baby on their back to sleep.
place the baby's feet at the bottom of the cot to prevent wriggling down under the covers.
do not fall asleep with your baby while sitting or lying on the sofa.
keep your baby's head uncovered while he or she sleeps.
never let your baby sleep with a pillow until he or she is at least two years old.
do not crowd the cot with soft toys.
never share a bed with your baby if he or she is under eight weeks old
dress your baby for bed in a nappy, vest and babygro
keep your baby at the right temperature - not too hot or too cold.Try to keep room temperature between 16 and 20°C
do not let your baby sleep with a hot water bottle, next to a radiator, heater, fire or in direct sunshine
do not let your baby sleep in a draught
do not use duvets, quilts, cot bumpers or sheepskins
Baby breathing monitors are available, designed to alert the parents if they fail to detect breathing for more than 20 seconds.

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