Greenslopes Maternity Your Journey 35 Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) SIDS is short for ‘Sudden Infant Death Syndrome’. It means the sudden, unexpected death of a baby and is the most common cause of death in babies between one month and one year of age. Most babies who die of SIDS are under six months. The following is a list of ways that have been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS. • sleep your baby on his/her back • ensure your baby’s face is uncovered and with blankets tucked in during sleep • sleep your baby at the bottom of the cot • make sure your baby is not too hot or cold • do not use doonas, bumpers or pillows in the cot • do not let anyone smoke near your baby – babies need a smoke free environment. Immunisation is not linked to SIDS. For more information, talk to your community health nurse or contact SIDS and Kids (24 hour support line) on 1300 308 307 or www.sidsandkids.org Babies can become ill quite quickly; when this happens immediate action is required. Seek immediate action if your baby: • is pale, drowsy and hot • has convulsions • is lethargic and crying • stops breathing for more than • is vomiting green fluid 15 seconds. • will not feed Where to get help when your baby is sick • your paediatrician or local doctor (GP) • Poisons Information Centre (24-hour hotline) 131 126 • Nurse-On-Call 1300 606 024 Six week postnatal check Your doctor will normally want to see you and your baby six weeks after the birth of your baby. The aim of this visit is to ensure that you and your baby are physically and emotionally well. Contraception is usually discussed again, as well as adjustment to family life. Soreness and stitches Your vagina might feel swollen and uncomfortable when you go to the toilet, and you may have slight burning after the birth. If you have stitches from a tear or episiotomy, you may need to use ice packs regularly during the first few days. This will help to reduce bruising and swelling. Change pads frequently, and when you have a shower or bath gently pat the area dry with a clean towel to prevent infection. Rest is also an important part of your recovery. Special Care Nursery (SCN) If your baby is premature or unwell you will receive additional advice and support. If you choose to breastfeed we will encourage you to express breast milk if your baby is unable to feed from the breast, starting as soon as you can after birth and then about eight to 10 times a day. The staff will assist you with expressing. Tests and medications for your baby You will be offered a number of medications and tests for your baby during the first few days of life. It is your decision and you will be asked to provide permission and consent for any: • tests • special treatments • medications. If you don’t understand why a test or treatment is necessary, ask for more information or further explanation. All babies cry. Crying is your baby’s way of communicating. Babies can become ill quite quickly; when this happens immediate action is required. Seek immediate action if your baby: • is pale, drowsy and hot • is lethargic and crying • is vomiting green fluid • will not feed • has convulsions • stops breathing for more than 15 seconds. Where to get help when your baby is sick • your paediatrician or local doctor (GP) • Poisons Information Centre (24-hour hotline) 131 126 • Nurse-On-Call 1300 606 024 Something to Remember Face uncovered Lying on back, at bottom of the cot Blankets tucked in during sleep How to reduce the risk of SIDS
GPH Materntiy Your Journey Book PI499 0216
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