title: Two cases of apparent suffocation of newborns during side-lying breastfeeding.
abstract: The side-lying position is one of several options offered to women in the postpartum period to assist with early establishment of breastfeeding. Many new mothers are exhausted and experiencing significant pain following birth. While the side-lying position for breastfeeding can allow women to get needed rest, it can increase their risk of falling asleep while in this position and potentially smothering their babies. We report two cases of apparent suffocation in newborns on the maternity ward when women unintentionally fell asleep while breastfeeding in the side-lying position. Interventions that may help to prevent such events are suggested.
authors: North York General Hospital in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. kayla.feldman@nygh.on.ca
authors: Kayla
authors: K
authors: Feldman
authors: Robin K
authors: RK
authors: Whyte
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D001237:Asphyxia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control* / Q000628:therapy; D001942:Breast Feeding / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods; D016887:Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation / Q000379:methods; D017809:Fatal Outcome; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007224:Infant Care; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D011187:Posture; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: breastfeeding; infant; newborn; sudden infant death