Why Does SIDS Peak at 2-4 Months?
SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is worrisome. A scary thought any new parent may face.
The incidence rate in the 1980’s was 1.53% per 1000 births, dropping to .53% in 2004.
Education of this phenomenon contributes to keep numbers down. Today we put a microscope under, “Why does SIDS peak at 2-4 months?”
We also will be looking at SIDS risk by age, give 5 preventative tips for SIDS and more.
What is SIDS?
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services describe SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome as the sudden and unexplained death of an infant under 12 months old.
SIDS is the leading cause of death among newborns between 1 and 12 months old. With most occurrences happening by 6 months.
Law enforcement, health officials, coroner and medical examiner do an extensive review of medical history and conduct an autopsy. An investigation takes place to identify the cause of death.
If no cause or explanation for the infant death can be concluded, law and health professionals may categorize as SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Luckily, statistics are dropping.
While the exact cause may be unknown, diagnosis can include asphyxiation or drowning, heart disease (arrhythmia), dehydration, poisoning, trauma, electrolyte disturbances, infections (pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis), and congenital metabolic disorders.
Why Does SIDS Peak at 2-4 Months?
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) peaks between 2-4 months old due to a combination of factors.
At this age, babies are developing rapidly, sleeping longer stretches, and have less control over their body movements.
These factors, along with the potential for parents to unintentionally place their infants in unsafe sleep environments, contribute to the increased risk during this period.
The median average infant age that this may take place is between 2-4 months.
According to this peer reviewed article, infants are at greatest risk of SIDS at 2-4 months of age.
With most deaths having occurred at 6 months, the good news is characteristic age distribution has declined in some countries.
Educational campaigns benefit in continuing the decrease in occurrence.
Take precaution during the stage of greatest risk. Follow the preventative tips below.
SIDS Risk By Age
SIDS risk by age affects a newborn baby most between 2, 3 and 4 months most. Keep in mind, the average timeframe for SIDS can be anywhere between 1 month and 12 months.
Making sure your baby isn’t sleeping on their stomach. Use the supine position when putting them down.
Make sure they aren’t sleeping in clothing that has anything that can obstruct breathing.
It is advisable to not sleep with your newborn in the same bed. Check the temperature of the room too. Make sure it’s not too warm.
With SIDS risk by age 2-4 months, you may accidentally roll over onto your baby if in the same bed. You can bring the crib in your room for close proximity.
5 Preventative Tips for SIDS
Now you know, why does SIDS peak at 2-4 months? Plus, you are equipped with a newborn care plan to protect your baby. There are tips new parents can follow for prevention.
As a new parent, preventing SIDS is a top concern at this stage of development.
Here are 5 ways for prevention.
Always put your baby to sleep on their back. It's the safest position.
Keep the crib free of soft bedding and toys to reduce the risk of suffocation.
Consider using a pacifier when putting your baby down for naps or bedtime.
Ensure your baby sleeps in a smoke-free environment to lower the risk of SIDS.
Breastfeeding has been linked to a lower risk of SIDS, so if possible, breastfeed your baby.
Remember, these simple steps can go a long way in keeping your little one safe and sound while they sleep.
Newborn Care Plan
Arm yourself with a newborn care plan. Don’t use soft toys, blankets or pillows. Don’t sleep on a recliner, couch or soft mattress.
These can easily become literal danger zones for babies 2-4 months old.
They can become an avenue for asphyxiation by cutting off the oxygen supply. Be mindful of where you’re dozing off with your infant and any surrounding items that could pose a threat.
Try putting them on their back in their crib for naptime.
On a firm mattress that is free of toys and pillows. Pull up a comfy chair next to the crib if you want and you can nap with them.
Baby sleep training is not advisable the first 2-3 months after birth. So that’s off the table. Plus, your munchkin will love to see your smiling face as soon as they wake up anyway.
Knowledge is Power
While it may seem alarming, being aware of safe sleep practices, such as placing babies on their backs to sleep and avoiding soft bedding, can significantly reduce the risk of SIDS.
For any other questions or concerns outside of the spectrum of this article, seek out a newborn care specialist in your area or contact your local pediatrician.
Remember, knowledge is power, and by understanding why SIDS peaks at 2-4 months old.
With further education we can take proactive steps to keep our little ones safe and sound.
