Kim Kardashian's photo of Psalm raises SIDS concerns

Kim Kardashian is being criticised over a photo of her newborn son shared to Instagram.

The 37-year-old reality star shared the snapshot of little Psalm West snuggled up in his cot to her social media channels.

But while some people were focused on the baby’s name, others were more concerned with the newborn's sleeping arrangements.

Many were quick to point out that the loose blankets in the cot and the baby nest Psalm was sleeping on goes against the advice of baby sleep experts.

“Congrats beautiful baby.. be careful with all the blankets so much with SIDS nowadays,” one user commented on the reality star’s Facebook page.

“Congrats. Please read up on infant safety though!,” another wrote. “Baby should sleep on a fitted sheet with nothing else in the crib at all.”

Another woman suggested Kim read advice by sleep charity The Lullaby Trust.

“Somebody needs to tell this woman to take that dangerous cot bumper off here in the UK there’s multiple death caused by them and that sleepyhead is also dangerous!! Read The Lullaby Trust,” she wrote.

But others were quick to step in and defend the star.

“I’m sure he is supervised 24/7,” one wrote. “Enlarge the pic to notice the baby IS on his back. Baby 4, sure Kim has it down, and is a highly attentive mom. Congrats Kim & family.”

Experts raise concerns

The Lullaby Trust is a charity that provides expert advice on safer sleep for babies and raises awareness on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Though the charity did not name the Kardashians, it has issued a statement raising concerns over celebrities and influencers sharing images of babies sleeping unsafely.

The charity warns that celebrities need to be mindful of the influence they have on parents and consumers and says showing babies sleeping in situations that could increase the risk of SIDS normalises unsafe practices.

Jenny Ward, acting chief executive of The Lullaby Trust, said: "In the age of social media, celebrities have more influence than ever over parents and consumers.

"When it comes to sharing images of their babies, it is important for them to keep in mind that their photos might be unintentionally promoting unsafe practices or products”

Ms Ward pointed out that around 5 babies dies every week of SIDS in the UK, a statistic that has increased since 2016.

In Australia between 80-90 babies ted to die each year from the shocking syndrome based on the most recent numbers.

"It is vitally important that parents are aware of advice on how to sleep their baby safely, if all parents had access to this information many lives could be saved,” she said.

The charity went on to point out that some baby photos feature products that are not recommended such as pods or nests.

Many of these products are available on the high street but do not comply with evidence-based safer sleep advice.

How should your baby sleep?

For safer sleep, babies should be laid on their back on a firm, flat mattress without cushioned or raised areas or anything that straps or holds a baby in position.

Pillows, cot bumpers and soft bulky bedding also pose a risk to babies and should be avoided.

Sleeping babies on soft surfaces can cause overheating, which is a risk factor for SIDS, or can potentially obstruct a baby’s airway if they roll.

Jenny added: "It is known that products featured in celebrity photos tend to become popular with consumers.

"Parents are already faced with an overwhelming number of baby products and working out what to buy for a new baby can be difficult and confusing.

"Many people make the reasonable assumption that if an item is used by a celebrity and sold on the high street it is okay for their baby. However, we know that this is not always the case."

The charity has long campaigned for the media to portray babies sleeping safely to give positive examples to parents and avoid confusion.

What you can do

While the cause of SIDS is not known, evidence shows there are steps parents can take to reduce the risk of SIDS occurring.

The Lullaby Trust advises all parents to:

• Always place baby on their back to sleep

• Keep the cot clear of pillows, cot bumpers, or any loose, excessive or bulky bedding

• Place baby to sleep in a separate cot or Moses basket in the same room as you for the first six months

• Use a firm, flat, waterproof mattress in good condition

• Keep baby smoke free during pregnancy and after birth

• Never cover baby’s head or face while sleeping

• Do not co-sleep if you smoke, have drunk alcohol or taken medication that may make you less aware or if your baby was premature or of low birth weight

Words by Marie Claire Dorking

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