LAKEPORT, Calif. – Giving birth at Sutter Lakeside Hospital just got cozier.

As of this month, every baby born in Lakeside’s Family Birth Center will go home with a SleepSack, a wearable blanket that reduces the chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

The SleepSack, which is shaped much like a vest, leaves the baby’s head and arms unrestricted while the bottom of the sack serves as a miniature sleeping bag.

The sleep sack allows the baby free range of motion without the risk of accidentally covering the face or airway with loose material.

Other benefits of the sack include ease of operation, convenience, and guaranteed warmth because of the infant’s inability to kick it off.

“No family should endure the trauma of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome,” said Jackie Rad, RN, Family Birth Center manager. “The SleepSacks can go a long way in preventing loose material from obstructing an infant’s face, which reduces the risk of SIDS. We also educate our patients on the best practices for safe infant sleep, which includes putting the baby to sleep on its back, eliminating excess pillows and blankets in the crib, and not bed-sharing.”

Other benefits of the Family Birth Center include four private suites for labor and delivery, in-room sleeping accommodations for family members, private bathrooms with showers or shower-tubs, and in-room dining service.

For more information or to schedule a tour of the Family Birth Center, please call 707-262-5087. To schedule a prenatal appointment with a care provider, please call 707-263-6885.

Morgen Wells is community relations and fund development coordinator for Sutter Lakeside Hospital.