Plunket is welcoming the release of a graphic DVD showing the effects of shaken baby syndrome.

From July, every woman in Auckland who gives birth will be shown the DVD.

“Anything to raise the issue of shaken-baby syndrome is positive,” says Allison Jamieson, Plunkets clinical adviser.

“This DVD will help people understand the risks and consequences of shaking a baby.
This is knowledge that’s important in reducing the risk to babies of being shaken.”

Ms Jamieson says 2011 is shaping up to be a record year for child abuse, so a “fence at the top of the cliff approach” is needed to help parents cope.

“A crying baby and parents suffering from lack of sleep can create stressful situations. Its vital parents and other caregivers are offered strategies and information right from the beginning. We need to be looking at preventative measures, and how we can support families to care for and raise children safely. Parents need support and they need to know where to go for it.”

Plunket advises parents and caregivers who feel stress is getting too much for them to put their baby in a safe place, such as a cot, and take a few minutes to calm down before checking on their baby.

It may also help to ring a friend or PlunketLine on 0800 933 922 to talk about how they are feeling.

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