nations are found in warmer climates where SIDS frequency would be
expected to be four to five times less due to the absence of cold weather.
And second, when a comparison is made within a third-world society,
families whose parents sleep with their children have equal or higher
rates of infant deaths than those who don’t sleep with their children.
Does bed-sharing with your infant really reduce the possibility of
SIDS? The American Academy of Pediatrics says no to that question. The
AAP in collaboration with a National Institute of Child Health and
Human Development subcommittee concluded there was no evidence that
shared sleep reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome and
indeed, it may increase the risk.^3
Today research strongly suggests and the American Academy of
Pediatrics recommends that putting a baby on his or her back for sleep,
rather than on the baby’s tummy, reduces the risk of SIDS.^4 What is not
conclusive is whether back sleeping is the primary or secondary factor in
the reduction of risk. Does the supine position (wholly on the back)
remove the child from soft surfaces and gas-trapping objects (mattresses,
pillows, crib liners), which could be the actual risk factor, or is it actually
the biomechanics of tummy-sleeping? More research is needed to answer
that question. Meanwhile, we suggest you speak to your health care
provider if you have any questions concerning SIDS and the positioning
of your baby. Parents ask us if back positioning will interfere with the
establishment of healthy sleep? The answer is no.
One last word about crib death. The one thing that most pediatricians
agree upon is the need for a firm mattress of good quality. Soft
mattresses with questionable stuffing material should be avoided. Spend
the extra money required for a good mattress.
Diapers
As new parents, you have a choice between disposable or cloth diapers. It
really is a matter of personal preference. As a general rule, you will
change your baby’s diaper at each feeding. PDF babies average six to
eight diaper changes a day coinciding with their feedings.