New parents are being given inconsistent advice about sleeping positions for their babies that could be putting some at risk of suffocation, top child health experts warn. Specialists from SIDS and Kids, and Kidsafe say some organisations continue to advise parents to use dangerous V-shaped pillows that can suffocate babies who slip down between the two arms. Parental help lines are also advising mums and dads to sleep in the same bed with their children, despite the potential danger of suffocation, University of Adelaide pathology expert Professor Roger Byard wrote in the Medical Journal of Australia.
Prof Byard joined forces with SIDS and Kids SA executive director Maxine Weber, Kidsafe SA executive officer Helen Noblet and forensic scientist Glenda Cairns to call for urgent moves to rectify inconsistencies. "Despite clear evidence that certain sleeping situations are potentially dangerous for infants certain organisations or individuals continue to give a contrary message," they wrote. This is despite large-scale public awareness campaigns and brochures advising otherwise, they said.
In 1998, following the deaths of three infants, the South Australian state coroner ordered a public warning be issued against the use of V-shaped pillows for children under two. This warning was also included in safe-sleeping campaigns by SIDS and Kids. "Despite these clear messages, deaths continue to occur in SA, and V-shaped pillows are still being sold in a local obstetric hospital," wrote the specialists.
Ms Cairns said she was advised unequivocally on a helpline to share a bed with her new baby, despite the proven dangers. "No mention was made of the potential danger of suffocation if parents are physically large, intoxicated, sedated, or simply exhausted, or if the infant is placed between the parents under bedcovers," Ms Cairns said. Prof Byard said parents could not be expected to make safe, informed decisions if they were exposed to such conflicting advice.
"Perhaps another question to ask is: 'What responsibility do organisations and employees bear if an infant dies as a result of parents following such advice?'," he said. Brought to you by When you see news happening: SMS/MMS: 0406 THE AGE (0406 843 243), or us.
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