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Malta Joint Paediatric Clinic, Santa Lucija Pharmacy, Santa Lucija (2026)

05/05/2026

𝙏𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝘿𝙪𝙘𝙩 𝙊𝙗𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙞𝙣 𝘽𝙖𝙗𝙞𝙚𝙨: 𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙉𝙚𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙆𝙣𝙤𝙬

Tear duct obstruction, also known as congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO), is a common condition in babies, affecting approximately 5–20% of newborns. It occurs when the tear drainage system, which normally carries tears from the eye into the nose, is blocked or has not fully opened at birth.

What Causes It?

In most cases, the blockage occurs because a thin membrane at the lower end of the tear duct (near the nose) fails to open completely after birth. Less commonly, the obstruction may be due to narrowing of the duct or abnormal development of the drainage system.

Signs and Symptoms

Parents usually notice symptoms within the first few weeks or months of life. These include:

Persistent watering or tearing of one or both eyes
Tears pooling in the eye or running down the cheek
Sticky or crusty discharge, especially after sleep
Mild redness of the eyelids due to irritation

Importantly, the white part of the eye is usually not red. If there is significant redness of the eye itself, this may suggest conjunctivitis or another condition requiring assessment.

Sometimes mucus can collect in the blocked duct, leading to recurrent discharge that can mimic an eye infection.

Management

Most cases improve naturally as the tear duct opens with growth.

Conservative management is the first approach and includes:

1. Tear Duct Massage (Crigler massage)
Parents can gently massage the area between the inner corner of the eye and the side of the nose using a clean finger, applying downward pressure several times a day. This may help open the membrane.

2. Cleaning the Eye
Any discharge can be wiped away with cooled boiled water or sterile saline using clean cotton or gauze.

3. Antibiotic Drops (if needed)
These are only used if there is significant discharge suggesting secondary bacterial infection. They do not resolve the blockage itself.

When Further Treatment Is Needed

If symptoms persist beyond 9–12 months, referral to an ophthalmologist may be considered. The most common procedure is probing, where a fine instrument is passed through the duct to open the blockage. This is highly successful, especially when performed before 2 years of age.

Rarely, more advanced procedures such as silicone tube insertion may be needed.

Expected Outcome

The outlook is excellent. Around 90% of cases resolve spontaneously during the first year of life, many by 6–10 months. Babies who require probing generally do very well, with high success rates and minimal long-term problems.

Parents should seek urgent medical review if there is swelling, redness, or tenderness near the inner corner of the eye, fever, or marked irritability, as this could indicate infection of the tear sac (dacryocystitis), which requires prompt treatment.

13/02/2026

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

If your child has been prescribed an inhaler, you may also have been advised to use a spacer device. A spacer is a simple plastic chamber that attaches to an inhaler and helps deliver the medication more effectively into the lungs. Used properly, it can make a big difference in controlling asthma and other breathing conditions.

A spacer works by holding the medicine in the chamber after it is released from the inhaler. This gives your child time to breathe it in slowly and deeply, instead of trying to coordinate pressing and inhaling at the same time. It also reduces the amount of medicine that lands in the mouth and throat.

To use a spacer correctly, first remove the caps from both the inhaler and the spacer. Shake the inhaler well for about 5 seconds. Insert the inhaler into the back of the spacer. Place the mouthpiece of the spacer firmly between your child’s teeth and ask them to seal their lips tightly around it. If your child uses a face mask attachment, ensure the mask fits snugly over the nose and mouth.

Press the inhaler once to release one puff into the spacer. Then ask your child to take slow, deep breaths in and out through the mouthpiece. Ideally, they should take 5–6 normal breaths. If they can manage one slow deep breath and hold it for 5–10 seconds, that is even better. If more than one puff is prescribed, wait about 30 seconds, shake the inhaler again, and repeat the steps.

Caring for the spacer is equally important. Clean it about once a month, or more often if advised. Take it apart and wash it in warm water with a small amount of mild washing-up liquid. Do not rinse it with clean water afterwards. Instead, allow it to air dry naturally without wiping it, as wiping can create static that reduces how well the medicine is delivered. Once completely dry, reassemble it and store it in a clean, dry place.

Check the spacer regularly for cracks or damage, and replace it if it becomes worn. Most spacers need replacing every 6–12 months, depending on use and manufacturer advice.

Using a spacer correctly can greatly improve how well your child’s medication works. If you are ever unsure about the technique, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to demonstrate it again. A few minutes of practice can make a world of difference to your child’s breathing and comfort.

Yours sincerely,
Malta Joint Paediatric Clinic

13/02/2026

Dear Parents,

Wheezing is a common sound many families hear at some point during infancy or childhood. It is a high-pitched, whistling noise that usually happens when a child breathes out. This sound is caused by narrowing or swelling of the small air tubes inside the lungs.

In babies and young children, the airways are naturally small. This means that even a little swelling from a cold can make breathing noisy. The most common cause of wheezing in infancy is a viral infection, such as bronchiolitis. One well-known virus that can cause this is the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). These children often start with a runny nose and cough, and after a few days they may develop fast breathing, chest indrawing, or difficulty feeding.

In toddlers and older children, wheezing may be linked to asthma. Asthma is a condition where the airways become sensitive and tighten in response to triggers such as viral infections, cold air, dust, smoke, pets, or exercise. Not every child who wheezes has asthma. Some children only wheeze during colds and outgrow it as their lungs grow bigger.

Other less common causes of wheezing include inhaling a small object (especially in toddlers), allergies, or reflux of stomach contents into the airway.

Parents often ask: how can I tell if it is serious? You should seek medical advice urgently if your child is:

Breathing very fast

Pulling in the skin between the ribs or at the neck

Unable to speak or feed properly due to breathlessness

Looking pale, blue, or unusually drowsy

Mild wheezing with a simple cold can often be managed at home with close observation, ensuring your child drinks well and rests. In some cases, doctors may prescribe inhalers (such as bronchodilators) to help open the airways. These are usually given through a spacer device with a mask in younger children.

It is very important to avoid cigarette smoke around children, as this worsens wheezing and increases the risk of repeated episodes.

The reassuring news is that many infants who wheeze in the first few years of life improve as they grow. Their airways widen, and episodes become less frequent. However, if wheezing is recurrent, severe, or associated with eczema or strong family history of asthma, follow-up with your doctor is recommended.

If you are ever unsure, trust your instincts as a parent. It is always better to have your child checked than to worry at home.

Yours sincerely,
Malta Joint Paediatric Clinic

01/02/2026

𝐋𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐚 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝’𝐬 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝: 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰

Feeling a lump on your child’s head can be worrying for any parent. The good news is that most lumps on a child’s head are harmless, especially in young children. They are often related to normal anatomy, minor injuries, or the body’s response to common infections. This article explains the most common causes, how they differ, and when medical advice should be sought.

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐜𝐚𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐝

1. Enlarged lymph nodes
Lymph nodes are small glands that play an important role in fighting infection. They are commonly felt at the back of the head, behind the ears, and along the neck. During the winter months, children tend to catch more colds, throat infections, and ear infections. In response, lymph nodes can grow in size, becoming more noticeable.

These nodes are usually:
- Soft or rubbery
- Mobile (they move slightly under the skin)
- Sometimes tender
They often reduce in size slowly over weeks after the infection settles.

2. Dermoid cysts
Dermoid cysts are benign (non-cancerous) lumps that are present from birth, although they may only become noticeable later in childhood. They are often found on the scalp or near the eyebrows.

Typical features include:
- Firm but not hard
- Painless
- Slow-growing
- Do not change with illness

Dermoid cysts are not infections and do not go away on their own. They are usually assessed by a doctor and may be removed surgically if needed.

3. Minor bumps and bruises
Young children frequently knock their heads while playing. This can cause a temporary swelling or “goose egg” due to bruising under the skin. These lumps usually appear suddenly after an injury and gradually reduce over days to weeks.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞?

While it is not always possible to be certain, some general clues can help:
- Changes with illness suggest lymph nodes
-Present for months without change may suggest a cyst
- Sudden appearance after a knock points towards a bruise

Location, texture, tenderness, and whether the lump moves under the skin are all useful observations.

𝐖𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞?

You should arrange a medical review if:

- The lump is hard, fixed, or rapidly growing
- It continues to enlarge over time
- It is associated with persistent fever, weight loss, or lethargy
- The skin over the lump becomes red, hot, or painful
- You are unsure or worried

𝘼 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙚

In winter especially, enlarged lymph nodes are very common and usually reflect a healthy immune response. Nevertheless, no concern is too small to discuss. If you are worried about a lump on your child’s head, your healthcare provider can assess it and offer reassurance or further investigation if needed.

01/02/2026

𝐕𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚 (𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐧𝐩𝐨𝐱): 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰

Varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, is a viral infection that most parents have heard of and many remember from their own childhood. Because it is often described as a “mild” illness, it can be easy to underestimate its impact. However, chickenpox can cause significant discomfort for children and has wider effects on families and the community. Understanding the illness helps explain why vaccination is strongly recommended.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐧𝐩𝐨𝐱 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞?

Chickenpox usually starts with fever, tiredness, headache, and loss of appetite. Within a day or two, a characteristic rash appears. This rash begins as small red spots, which quickly turn into itchy fluid-filled blisters. Over several days, new spots continue to appear while older ones crust over, meaning children often have spots at different stages at the same time.

The itching can be intense and distressing, especially at night. Scratching can lead to skin infections and scarring, particularly in younger children who struggle to resist the urge to scratch.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝?

Most children recover fully, but chickenpox is not always straightforward. Some children develop complications such as infected skin lesions, pneumonia, dehydration, or inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). These complications are uncommon but unpredictable and can occur even in previously healthy children.

Chickenpox also means time away from school, missed activities, poor sleep, and several uncomfortable days for the child and the family caring for them.

𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲

Chickenpox is highly contagious. It spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with the rash. A child is infectious 1–2 days before the rash appears, often before anyone realises what is going on.

This means one infected child can quickly spread the virus to classmates, siblings, and vulnerable people, including:

- Babies who are too young to be vaccinated

- Pregnant women

- Children with weakened immune systems

Outbreaks can lead to multiple children being unwell at the same time, causing disruption for families, schools, and childcare settings.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐯𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

The varicella vaccine is safe and effective. It significantly reduces the risk of catching chickenpox and, if infection does occur, symptoms are usually much, much milder. Vaccination helps protect not only your child, but also the wider community by reducing the spread of the virus.

By choosing vaccination, parents help prevent avoidable illness, complications, and outbreaks. It is a simple step that offers long-lasting protection and peace of mind.

01/02/2026

𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙩𝙤 𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘿𝙞𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝘽𝙚𝙩𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝘽𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙍𝙖𝙨𝙝 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖 𝙋𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙍𝙖𝙨𝙝

Rashes are very common in children and are often harmless. However, some rashes can be a sign of more serious illness. Two terms that doctors often use are blanching and petechial rashes. While the words may sound intimidating, the difference between them can be explained in a simple, practical way. This article aims to help parents with no medical background understand how to tell them apart and when to seek medical help.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 “𝐛𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠” 𝐦𝐞𝐚𝐧?

A blanching rash is one that fades or turns white when you press on it, and then returns to its original colour once the pressure is released. This happens because the redness is caused by increased blood flow in the skin’s tiny blood vessels, which temporarily empties when pressed.

Blanching rashes are commonly seen with:

Viral infections

Heat rashes

Allergic reactions

Eczema flares

These rashes are usually less worrying, especially if the child is otherwise well.

𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗵?

A petechial rash is made up of tiny red, purple, or brown dots that do not fade when pressed. These spots are caused by small amounts of bleeding under the skin rather than blood flowing through vessels. Because of this, pressing on the skin does not make them disappear.

Petechial rashes can sometimes be associated with serious conditions, including blood disorders or severe infections. While not every petechial rash is dangerous, it is important that these rashes are assessed urgently by a healthcare professional.

How to check: the tumbler (glass) test

A simple way parents can check a rash at home is by using the tumbler test.

What you need:

A clear glass tumbler or drinking glass

How to do it:

Press the side of the clear glass firmly against the rash.

Look through the glass while keeping pressure on the skin.

What you see:

If the rash fades or disappears, it is likely blanching.

If the spots remain clearly visible, it may be petechial.

See the diagram

Variations of the test

If a glass is not available, you can press gently with a clean finger. However, a glass works better because it allows you to see clearly whether the rash fades.

𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙠 𝙢𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙥

Seek urgent medical advice if:

The rash does not blanch

The rash is spreading quickly

Your child has fever, lethargy, vomiting, or looks unwell

You are unsure or worried

When it comes to rashes, trust your instincts. If something does not seem right, it is always safer to have your child checked by a medical professional.

13/01/2026

Dear Reader,

Influenza A, often simply called “the flu,” is a common viral illness that usually appears in waves, especially during the colder months. Many people get it at least once in their lives, and while most recover well, it can sometimes cause serious illness—especially in young children, the elderly, and people with long-term medical problems.

Influenza A spreads easily from person to person through coughs, sneezes, talking, or touching surfaces that have the virus on them. After being exposed, symptoms usually start within one to three days.

The most common symptoms are a sudden fever, chills, headache, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, cough, and muscle or joint aches. Many people also feel extremely tired and weak, sometimes for several days. Some may have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea, especially children. Unlike a common cold, flu symptoms usually come on quickly and can make you feel quite unwell.

Most people can manage Influenza A at home. Rest is very important—your body needs energy to fight the virus. Drink plenty of fluids such as water, soup, or warm drinks to avoid dehydration. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to reduce fever and ease pain, but aspirin should not be given to children. Try to eat light, healthy meals and stay warm and comfortable.

Antibiotics do not work against viruses, so they are not useful for treating influenza itself. In some cases, doctors may prescribe special antiviral medicines, but these are usually only helpful if started early and are mainly used for people at higher risk of complications.

Most people begin to feel better within a week, though tiredness can last longer. It is important to stay at home while you are unwell to avoid spreading the infection to others.

You should seek medical advice if symptoms are very severe, not improving after a few days, or getting worse. Get help urgently if there is difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent high fever, confusion, repeated vomiting, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine or extreme drowsiness.

Babies, elderly people, pregnant women, and those with conditions like asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or weak immune systems should contact a doctor early if they develop flu symptoms, even if they seem mild at first.

The best way to reduce your risk of Influenza A is through good hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and getting the yearly flu vaccine, which is especially important for high-risk groups.

With rest, care, and attention to warning signs, most people recover fully from Influenza A.

Warm regards,

Paediatric Clinic Team

19/11/2025

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

Few moments are as frightening for a parent as watching their child experience a febrile seizure. These episodes often come without warning, turning a simple fever into a sudden and overwhelming event. We are writing to reassure you that febrile seizures, though alarming, are usually harmless and far less dangerous than they appear.

A febrile seizure is a convulsion triggered by fever, most commonly affecting children between 6 months and 5 years of age. They happen because a child’s developing brain is more sensitive to rapid changes in temperature. It is important to remember that febrile seizures are not a sign of epilepsy, brain damage, or long-term illness. In fact, most children who experience them grow up completely healthy and never develop any neurological problems.

The typical febrile seizure lasts between one and five minutes. During this time, a child may lose consciousness, become stiff, or have rhythmic jerking movements of their arms and legs. Their eyes may roll back, and they may appear pale or even slightly blue around the lips. While this is undoubtedly distressing to witness, the seizure usually stops on its own without causing harm.

If your child has a febrile seizure, the most important thing you can do is stay calm. Place them on their side on a soft surface and remove any nearby objects to prevent injury. Do not put anything in their mouth, and do not try to restrain their movements. Most seizures end quickly; once it stops, your child may be confused or sleepy for a while—this is normal.

Call emergency medical help if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, if your child has difficulty breathing, or if they do not regain consciousness promptly after the episode. You should also seek medical assessment if this is your child’s first seizure or if you have any doubts about what happened.

Managing the fever itself—using paracetamol, ensuring hydration, and monitoring your child—can help keep them comfortable, but it does not necessarily prevent seizures. Some children may have more than one febrile seizure, especially during illnesses with high or rapidly rising temperatures, but they typically outgrow this tendency by age five.

We understand how frightening these moments can be, and we want to reassure you that you are not alone. With the right knowledge and support, febrile seizures can be managed confidently and safely. If you ever feel unsure or concerned, please reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

Warm regards,

Malta Joint Paediatric Clinic

23/10/2025

Rashes in Children: When to Worry

Dear Parents,

Skin rashes are common in childhood and can have many causes — from mild irritation to more serious infections. Most rashes are harmless and clear up with simple care, but some may need prompt medical attention.

Common mild rashes include heat rash, eczema, nappy rash, and viral rashes like roseola or hand-foot-and-mouth disease. These are usually itchy or spotty, but children otherwise feel well.

However, seek urgent medical help if a rash is accompanied by fever, lethargy, breathing difficulty, or if it spreads rapidly. A particularly concerning sign is a rash that does not fade when pressed with a glass — this could indicate meningococcal infection, which needs immediate emergency care.

Other warning signs include painful blisters, purple or bruised-looking spots, swelling, or if your child appears very unwell.

For mild rashes, keep the skin cool and clean, avoid scratching, and use gentle moisturisers or antihistamines if advised. Avoid new soaps or creams until the cause is clear.

Because rashes can look similar, it’s always best to have a doctor assess any unusual or worsening rash. Quick identification ensures the right treatment and peace of mind for parents.

Sincerely,
Joint Malta Paediatric Clinic

23/10/2025

Influenza (Flu) in Children

Dear Parents,

Influenza, or the flu, is a viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It tends to spread quickly among children, especially in schools and childcare settings, and can make your child feel quite unwell for several days.

Typical symptoms include high fever, sore throat, cough, muscle aches, tiredness, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhoea. Unlike a common cold, the flu comes on suddenly and can make children feel weak and miserable.

Most cases of flu improve within a week with rest, fluids, and fever control using paracetamol or ibuprofen. It’s important to keep your child home from school until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours to prevent spreading the infection. Encourage plenty of fluids, healthy meals, and rest.

Complications are uncommon but can include ear infections, pneumonia, or worsening of asthma. Seek medical attention if your child has difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, severe lethargy, or dehydration (dry lips, no tears, reduced urination).

The best prevention is the annual flu vaccine, which is safe and recommended for children, particularly those with chronic conditions like asthma or diabetes. Good hygiene — washing hands, covering coughs, and avoiding close contact with sick people — also helps protect your family.

With prompt care and prevention, the flu can usually be managed safely at home, helping your child recover comfortably and return to normal activities.

Sincerely,
Joint Malta Paediatric Clinic

23/10/2025

Constipation in Children

Dear Parents,

Constipation is one of the most common digestive problems in children. It simply means that stools are passed less often than usual or are hard, dry, and sometimes painful to pass. While it can cause discomfort, constipation is usually not serious and can be improved with simple lifestyle measures.

Common causes include not drinking enough fluids, a diet low in fibre, or ignoring the urge to go to the toilet. Stress, toilet training, or changes in routine — such as starting school — can also contribute.

You may notice that your child has infrequent bowel movements, complains of tummy pain, or avoids the toilet altogether. Sometimes, there may be small amounts of stool in the underwear (soiling), which happens when liquid stool leaks around harder stool inside the bowel.

At home, encourage your child to drink plenty of water and include more fruit, vegetables, and whole grains in their diet. Establish regular toilet times, especially after meals, and ensure your child sits comfortably with their feet supported. Positive reinforcement and patience go a long way in building healthy habits.

See your doctor if constipation persists for more than two weeks, is associated with vomiting, blood in the stool, severe pain, or weight loss. Medical treatment — often in the form of gentle laxatives — may be needed to help reset healthy bowel patterns.

With the right care and reassurance, most children recover fully. Preventing constipation early helps keep your child’s digestive system healthy and comfortable.

Sincerely,
Joint Malta Paediatric Clinic

10/10/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐞 “𝐁𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐭𝐨 𝐒𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐩” 𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐈𝐭 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐁𝐚𝐛𝐲’𝐬 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲

When it comes to caring for a newborn, one of the simplest and most important things parents can do is place their baby on their back to sleep. This position, known as the “Back to Sleep” position, has been a major breakthrough in infant safety and has helped save thousands of lives worldwide.

What is the “Back to Sleep” position?

Quite simply, it means always placing your baby on their back—never their side or stomach—every time they sleep, whether it's for a nap or at night. This sleeping position is recommended from birth up to 12 months of age.

Why is sleeping on the back so important?

Research has shown that placing babies on their backs to sleep reduces the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)—the sudden and unexplained death of a baby under one year of age, often during sleep. When babies sleep on their stomachs, they are more likely to rebreathe their own exhaled air, which can lead to low oxygen levels. Sleeping on the back keeps the airway open and clear.

Since the “Back to Sleep” campaign started in the 1990s, SIDS rates have dropped by more than 50% in many countries. It’s a simple change that has made a huge difference.

But what about choking?

Many parents worry that babies might choke if they spit up while sleeping on their back. In fact, healthy babies have natural reflexes that prevent this. Studies have shown that babies are actually less likely to choke when on their backs than on their stomachs.

Tips for safe sleep:

- Always place your baby on their back to sleep.

- Use a firm mattress with a fitted sheet.

- Keep the crib free of pillows, blankets, toys, or bumpers.

- Have your baby sleep in the same room (but not the same bed) for at least the first 6 months.

- Give your baby tummy time while awake to help with development and avoid flat spots on the head.

By following these simple steps, you can help your baby sleep safely and reduce the risk of SIDS.

Malta Joint Paediatric Clinic

Malta Joint Paediatric Clinic

05/05/2026

13/02/2026

13/02/2026

01/02/2026

01/02/2026

01/02/2026

13/01/2026

19/11/2025

23/10/2025

23/10/2025

23/10/2025

10/10/2025

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Monday	13:00 - 19:00
Tuesday	16:00 - 19:00
Wednesday	16:00 - 19:00
Thursday	13:00 - 19:00
Friday	16:00 - 19:00
Saturday	08:20 - 17:00