Do dummies prevent cot death?

Health visitor Dawn replies: There have been a number of studies
in Holland, New Zealand, US, Norway and the UK regarding Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and the use of dummies.

Some studies looked at the use of dummies in babies who died from SIDS and found that dummies do seem to have a protective effect.

However, the researchers cannot say for sure whether it is the dummy that makes the difference or other factors. No conclusions can be made and these findings, while interesting and important, cannot be interpreted as supporting the use of dummies to reduce the risk of SIDS.

When more is known, decisions can be made about whether the benefits outweigh the potentially harmful effects of dummies. We know that dirty dummies can cause ear infections and tummy upsets so they must be kept clean.

Some experts also think they cause speech delay and dental problems, so it's important to limit their use and never ‘plug in' a dummy to stop babble or speech.

For more information on reducing the risk of cot death visit www.sids.org.uk or call the helpline on 020 7233 2090.

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