Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden, unexplained death of a healthy infant. The cause of SIDS is not known, but certain factors may increase the risk for SIDS. There are steps that you can take to create a safe space for your baby during bedtime and nap that can help prevent SIDS.
What actions can be taken?
Sleeping
Always place your baby on his or her back for bedtime and naps until your baby is 1 year old. This sleeping position has the lowest risk of SIDS. Do not place your baby on his or her side or stomach for sleep unless told by your health care provider.
Place your baby to sleep in a crib or bassinet that is close to a parent or caregiver's bed. This is the safest place for a baby to sleep.
Use a crib and …show more content…
Do not use loose bedding, quilts, duvets, sheepskins, crib rail bumpers, or pillows in the crib.
Do not place toys or stuffed animals in the crib.
Do not regularly put your baby to sleep in an infant carrier, car seat, or swing.
Do not let your child sleep in the same bed as other people (co-sleep). This increases the risk of suffocation. If you sleep with your baby, you may not wake up if your baby needs help or is hurt in any way. This is especially true if:
You have been drinking or using drugs.
You have been taking medicine for sleep.
You have been taking medicine that may make you …show more content…
General instructions
Consider using a pacifier. A pacifier may help reduce the risk of SIDS. Talk to your health care provider about the best way to introduce a pacifier to your baby. If you use a pacifier:
It should be dry.
It should be cleaned regularly.
It should not be attached to any strings or objects if your baby uses it while sleeping.
Do not force the pacifier into your baby's mouth.
Do not reinsert the pacifier if it falls out of your baby's mouth while he or she sleeps.
Do not smoke or use tobacco around your baby, especially when he or she is sleeping. If you smoke or use tobacco when you are not around your baby or when outside of your home, change your clothes and bathe before being around your baby.
Give your baby plenty of time on his or her tummy while he or she is awake and while you can supervise. This helps your baby's muscles and nervous system. It also prevents the back of your baby’s head from becoming flat.
Keep your baby up to date with all immunizations.
Where to find more information:
American Academy of Family Physicians: www.aafp.org
American Academy of Pediatrics: