Safe Sleep and Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding prevents Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), according to the latest American Academy of Pediatric Policy Statement entitled SIDS and Other Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2016 Recommendations for a Safe Infant Sleeping Environment .
SIDS is an unexpected infant death which, after thorough evaluation, does not have a known cause. Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) is an infant death that is sudden and unexpected, but might or might not have an identifiable underlying cause. Breastfeeding is known to prevent SIDS, but does not necessarily prevent SUIDs.
This AAP policy statement provides 19 recommendations to prevent SUIDS. Which one of the following statements is not consistent with the AAP policy statement?
- Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months is more protective of SIDs than partial breastfeeding.
- Side sleeping on a firm surface next to mother is safe if the baby is breastfeeding, but not if the baby is fully formula feeding.
- Any breastfeeding is more protective of SIDS than no breastfeeding.
- Babies who are nursing in slings should be repositioned in the sling after nursing so the head is up and out of the sling.
- Late at night, it is safest to nurse a baby in the parent’s bed on a firm surface, rather than on a couch or recliner, in case the parent falls asleep while nursing.
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