Why is SIDS lower in breastfed babies?

Understanding the Link Between Breastfeeding and Lower SIDS Rates
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) remains a significant concern for new parents, but research indicates that breastfeeding may play a crucial role in reducing the risk. The connection between breastfeeding and lower SIDS rates is supported by various studies, which suggest several mechanisms through which breastfeeding benefits infant health and safety.
Protective Health Benefits
One of the primary reasons breastfeeding is associated with a lower incidence of SIDS is its protective effect against infections. Breastfed infants tend to experience fewer respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, which are known risk factors for SIDS. The antibodies present in breast milk bolster the infant’s immune system, helping to fend off illnesses that could compromise their health. This enhanced immunity is particularly vital in the early months of life when infants are most vulnerable.
Improved Arousal Responses
Another significant factor is the physiological differences in arousal responses between breastfed and formula-fed infants. Research indicates that breastfed babies are more easily aroused from sleep, which is critical in preventing SIDS. Infants who have difficulty waking may be at a higher risk of suffocation or other sleep-related dangers. The act of breastfeeding itself encourages a closer bond and more frequent interactions between mother and child, which can enhance the infant’s ability to respond to environmental stimuli.
Sleep Positioning and Practices
Breastfeeding also influences sleep practices that can mitigate SIDS risks. Mothers who breastfeed are more likely to place their infants in safer sleep positions, such as on their backs, which is a well-established recommendation for reducing SIDS risk. The convenience of breastfeeding during the night may lead to more frequent checks and adjustments in the infant’s sleeping position, further enhancing safety.
Duration and Exclusivity of Breastfeeding
The duration of breastfeeding appears to be a critical factor as well. Studies suggest that infants who are exclusively breastfed for at least two months have a significantly lower risk of SIDS compared to those who are not breastfed or are only partially breastfed. This correlation emphasizes the importance of not only initiating breastfeeding but also maintaining it for an extended period to maximize protective benefits.
Conclusion
While the exact mechanisms linking breastfeeding to reduced SIDS rates are still being explored, the evidence is compelling. The combination of enhanced immune protection, improved arousal responses, and safer sleep practices all contribute to the lower incidence of SIDS among breastfed infants. As such, promoting breastfeeding can be a vital public health strategy in safeguarding infant lives.

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 declining?

In the last 20 years, SIDS incidence has dropped by more than 50%, partly due to the “Back to Sleep” campaign [34]. Relative to the 3500 newborns that die every year in the U.S. from sleep-related reasons, including sudden infant death syndrome, a black baby dies in Indiana every 13 hours (SIDS) [6].

What are the benefits of breastfeeding to sleep?

Breastfeeding baby to sleep is a common and helpful parenting tool for many mums. It satisfies baby’s hunger and thirst, brings them comfort and helps them relax. Breastfeeding your baby to sleep isn’t a ‘bad habit’. They will still learn to settle in a different way for other people.

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.

What age is SIDS risk?

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death among infants between 1 month and 1 year of age. Even though SIDS can occur any time during a baby’s first year, most SIDS deaths occur in babies between 1 and 4 months of age.

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 are breastfed babies less likely for SIDS?

Antibodies transferred from mom to baby during breastfeeding protect babies from infections such as gastrointestinal or febrile illnesses that put them at increased risk for SIDS.

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.

When is the peak risk of SIDS?

The peak incidence of SIDS occurs between 1 – 4 months of age; 90% of cases occur before 6 months of age. Babies continue to be at risk for SIDS up to 12 months.

What is the single most significant factor for SIDS?

• Babies placed to sleep on their stomachs or sides are at higher risk for SIDS.
• Babies who are used to sleeping on their backs but who are placed on their stomachs or sides for sleep, like for a nap, are at very high risk of SIDS.