Why do breastfed babies have lower risk of SIDS?

Understanding the Link Between Breastfeeding and Lower SIDS Risk
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) remains a significant concern for new parents, with research consistently highlighting the protective benefits of breastfeeding against this tragic phenomenon. Studies indicate that breastfed infants have a notably lower risk of SIDS compared to their formula-fed counterparts, with some research suggesting that breastfeeding for at least two months can halve this risk.
The Protective Mechanisms of Breastfeeding
One of the primary reasons breastfeeding is believed to reduce the risk of SIDS is its role in enhancing an infant’s immune system. Breast milk is rich in antibodies and other immunological factors that help protect infants from infections, particularly respiratory illnesses. These infections have been linked to an increased risk of SIDS, as they can affect an infant’s ability to breathe properly during sleep.
Moreover, breastfeeding promotes a closer bond between mother and child, which can lead to safer sleep practices. The act of breastfeeding often encourages mothers to keep their babies close, whether in the same room or in bed, which has been associated with a lower risk of sleep-related deaths. This proximity allows for more responsive caregiving, where parents can quickly attend to their baby’s needs during the night.
Duration Matters
Research has shown that the longer a baby is breastfed, the greater the protective effect against SIDS. While any amount of breastfeeding is beneficial, studies suggest that breastfeeding for at least two months significantly reduces the risk, and continued breastfeeding offers even more protection. This correlation emphasizes the importance of supporting breastfeeding practices among new mothers.
Behavioral Factors
Breastfeeding also influences sleep positioning. Mothers who breastfeed are more likely to place their infants on their backs to sleep, a position that has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS. This practice aligns with public health recommendations that advocate for supine sleeping positions as a preventive measure against SIDS.
Conclusion
In summary, the relationship between breastfeeding and a reduced risk of SIDS is multifaceted. It encompasses immunological benefits, enhanced maternal-infant bonding, and safer sleep practices. As research continues to evolve, the emphasis on promoting breastfeeding as a protective measure against SIDS remains a crucial aspect of infant health advocacy. By understanding and supporting breastfeeding, parents and healthcare providers can work together to create safer sleep environments for infants, ultimately reducing the incidence of SIDS.

Why is SIDS higher in formula-fed babies?

Studies have found that a significantly higher number of formula fed SIDS infants have C. perfringens and its enterotoxin in their faeces compared to breast fed infants.

Why is breastfeeding protective in SIDS?

Infant sleep studies have shown that breastfed infants are more easily aroused than formula-fed infants, which may be an alternative mechanism for the protective effect of breastfeeding against SIDS.

Why we should not breastfeed while sleeping?

If you fall asleep while feeding baby in your bed, place them on their back in a separate sleep area made for babies as soon as you wake up. Evidence shows that the longer a parent and baby share the same bed, the greater the risk for sleep-related infant deaths.

Does combo feeding reduce SIDS?

It has been shown that partial or combination feeding (breast milk and formula) and exclusive breastfeeding have been associated with lower SIDS rates. Thankfully SIDS is now very rare.

Why does breastfeeding make cosleeping safer?

“When breastfeeding mothers sleep with their infants, they protect them from potential physiological stressors including airway covering and overheating by their characteristic sleep position (curled around their infants, making a constrained sleep space with their bodies), known as the C-position,” they state.

Why is SIDS risk highest at 3 months?

SIDS is most common at 2-4 months of age when the cardiorespiratory system of all infants is in rapid transition and therefore unstable. So, all infants in this age range are at risk for dysfunction of neurological control of breathing.

What happens to your boobs if you don’t breastfeed?

You may have some milk leak from your breasts, and your breasts may feel sore and swollen. This is called engorgement. It usually gets better after several days. Over time, your body will stop making milk if you don’t breastfeed or pump.

Are breastfed babies less likely to get SIDS?

Babies who are breastfed or are fed expressed breastmilk are at lower risk for SIDS compared with babies who were never fed breastmilk. According to research, the longer you exclusively breastfeed your baby (meaning not supplementing with formula or solid food), the lower his or her risk of SIDS.

Can you 100% prevent SIDS?

While there’s no way to completely prevent SIDS, one thing you can do to lower your baby’s risk is to make sure they see their healthcare provider for all of their routine well-baby care visits.

At what age is the peak incidence of SIDS?

The peak incidence of SIDS occurs between 1 – 4 months of age; 90% of cases occur before 6 months of age.