Baby Safety
The philosophy of the Birthing and Family Care Center at Northwest Health - La Porte is to provide a positive, family centered and medically safe labor/delivery experience. Our concern lies in the safety and comfort of both you and your baby and recommend the following safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Tips for Safe Infant Sleep
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of death among infants between one month and one year of age.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following to help keep infants safe while sleeping:
- Put babies to bed on their back. This is the safest way to sleep when infants are too young to turn themselves over.
- Keep the sleep surface clutter-free. Skip the pillows, blankets, bumpers and toys.
- Use a firm, flat mattress.
- Put babies to sleep in their own space.
To learn more about safety, visit Cribs for Kids. Cribs for Kids can also provide assistance for families in need of an infant-safe crib. Learn more here.
Infant feeding
Expectant moms will want to consider whether they will breastfeed or use formula. The following are some advantages of breastfeeding:
- Breastmilk provides natural antibodies that can help your infant resist ear, respiratory and intestinal infections.
- Breastfed babies are less likely to develop allergies that occasionally occur in babies fed cows' milk formulas.
- Babies who are breastfed may be less likely to develop asthma and diabetes, or become overweight.
If there is a medical reason you are unable to breastfeed, know that formulas do provide appropriate nutrition for baby. Both approaches are safe and healthy.
Calming a fussy baby
Comforting a fussy baby requires patience. The following ideas may take a few tries. With practice you'll find what works best for your infant.
- Swaddle your baby in a large, thin blanket to help them feel secure.
- Hold your baby and place them on their left side to help relieve any digestive discomfort. Trying gently rubbing their back.
- Turn on a calming, humming noise, such as a fan, to remind the baby of being inside the womb. Be sure the fan is not blowing on the baby.
- Walk your infant or rock them. Repetitive motions are calming for baby because they are similar to movements in the womb.
- If it is not yet time to feed your baby, offer a pacifier. Many babies find sucking to be soothing.
- Consider if your baby might be hungry, too hot, too cold, wet or soiled, overstimulated, bored or ill. If your baby has a fever, call your child's doctor.
Infant Car Seats
When in a vehicle, all infants must be properly positioned and fastened into a car seat, which can be a challenge. If you need assistance purchasing a car seat or using a car seat most effectively consider contact one of the organizations listed here.
Northwest Medical Group - Pediatrics
1509 State Street
La Porte, IN 46350
(219) 324-3431
By appointment; Spanish-speaking service available
La Porte County Health Department
302 W. 8th St.
Suite 4
Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 325-5563
By appointment only
La Porte Fire Department
115 East Shore Parkway
La Porte, IN 46350
(219) 362-2654
By appointment
Michigan City Fire Department
2510 E. Michigan Blvd.
Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 873-1443
By appointment only; Spanish-speaking service available
For more information about safe infant care, visit www.healthychildren.org