How to Reduce the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), sometimes called "crib death" is the sudden, unexplained death of an infant while sleeping. It often strikes in the first six months of life. There are some important guidelines that all parents should follow to help reduce the risk of SIDS.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. 
    

   Always put babies on their backs to sleep. Make sure all caregivers and family members understand the importance of this rule. Infants who sleep on their stomachs and sides have a higher rate of SIDS than infants who sleep on their backs.

2. 
    

   Use a firm mattress and a fitted crib sheet in baby's crib. Do not cover your baby with fluffy blankets or comforters. Swaddle the baby snugly instead. Do not put soft padding under the baby. Do not put any soft stuffed toys or pillows in the baby's crib. Do not use bumpers on the sides of the baby's crib.

3. 
    

   Keep the room temperature at a level that feels comfortable for you. Don't overdress your baby. One rule of thumb is dress baby in one more layer of clothing than you are wearing. A onesie under pajamas and/or a swaddle over them should be sufficient.

4. Never expose your baby to secondhand smoke.

Tips & Warnings

• Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS

Resources

• First Candle - Working to Stop SIDS
• American Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Institute