How to Lower the Chance of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is when a baby under one year old dies suddenly and for no clear reason, usually when they’re asleep. We don’t know exactly what causes SIDS, but studies have found things that can really lower the chance of it happening. If you’re a parent or carer, knowing and doing safe sleep habits can keep your baby safer and help you feel calmer.

Here’s some advice to help lower the risk of SIDS:

1. Always Put Your Baby on Their Back to Sleep

The safest way for babies to sleep is on their backs. Research shows that putting babies on their stomachs or sides makes SIDS more likely. Always put your baby on their back to sleep, both for naps and at night, until they can roll over on their own.

2. Use a Hard, Flat Place for Your Baby to Sleep

Make sure your baby sleeps on a hard, flat surface in a cot, crib, or travel cot that’s up to safety standards. Don’t let your baby sleep on soft things like sofas, cushions, or really soft mattresses because they can cause suffocation or overheating.

3. Keep Soft Things and Toys Out of the Sleep Area

Take out pillows, thick blankets, soft toys, cot bumpers, and other soft items from where your baby sleeps. These things can cause suffocation. Instead, use a light sleeping bag or wearable blanket to keep your baby warm.

4. Sleep in the Same Room, but Not the Same Bed

It’s best for your baby to sleep in the same room as you, but in their own safe sleeping place like a cot or crib. Sharing a bed can raise the chance of SIDS because of accidental suffocation or strangulation. Keep your baby close, but in a safe, separate spot.

5. Keep the Room at a Good Temperature

If a baby gets too hot, it can raise the risk of SIDS. Dress your baby in clothes that are right for the room temperature, and don’t put too many layers or thick bedding on them. Keep the room at a comfortable temperature and check on your baby sometimes.

6. Give Your Baby a Dummy When They Nap or Sleep

Giving a dummy to your baby when they sleep might lower the risk of SIDS. If your baby doesn’t want the dummy, don’t force it. Don’t tie the dummy to a string or cord because it could be a choking risk.

7. Go to Prenatal Appointments and Don’t Smoke

Don’t smoke when you’re pregnant, and keep your baby away from smoke. Smoking raises the risk of SIDS, so it’s important to have a smoke-free space. Also, go to all your prenatal appointments to help have a healthy pregnancy.

8. Breastfeed If You Can

Breastfeeding can lower the chance of SIDS. Breastfeeding only for the first few months gives your baby immune protection and helps them grow healthy.

9. Keep Your Baby Away from Illnesses and Get Vaccinations

Being sick can raise the risk of SIDS. Keep your baby away from people who are sick, and make sure they get all their shots on time to protect them from diseases.

10. Don’t Use Products That Claim to Prevent SIDS Without Proof

Be careful with products that say they can prevent SIDS but don’t have proof. Stick to safe sleep habits that health groups recommend.

To lower the risk of SIDS, create a safe place for your baby to sleep and follow the suggestions given. While you can’t remove the risk completely, doing these things can really lower the chance of SIDS and help keep your baby safe when they’re sleeping.

Always talk to your doctor for advice specific to you, and stay up to date by checking with health groups that you trust. By loving and watching out for your baby, you can help keep them safe.