Steps to Help Prevent SIDS

Parents who know about SIDS may think of it as their worst nightmare. Sudden infant death syndrome is known as SIDS or crib death. It’s when a baby 12 months or younger dies during sleep with no warning signs or a clear reason.

Although there is no 100% way to prevent SIDS, there is a lot you can do to lower your baby’s risk. Since the American Academy of Pediatrics issued its safe sleep recommendations in 1992 and launched its "Back to Sleep" campaign in 1994, the SIDS rate has dropped dramatically. That year, the SIDS death rate was 103 per 100,000 live births, compared to 35 per 100,000 live births in 2018.

Put a Sleeping Baby on Their Back

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Your baby’s risk of SIDS is much higher any time they sleep on their side or stomach. (A baby placed on their side can roll over on their stomach.) These positions put your baby’s face in the mattress or sleeping area, which can smother them.

So, every time you put your baby in their bed to sleep -- for naps, at night, or any time -- lay them down on their back. Don’t let them sleep in a stroller, car seat, baby seat or swing for a prolonged period of time. Get them out and lay them on a flat surface or bed.

Tell anyone who takes care of your baby how essential it is to lay your sleeping baby on their back each time. That includes grandparents, babysitters and childcare providers, older siblings, and others. They may think one time won’t matter, but it can. When a baby who usually sleeps on their back is suddenly laid on their stomach to sleep, the risk of SIDS is much higher.

If you’re worried your baby might choke while sleeping on their back, don't be. Choking is very rare, and healthy babies tend to swallow or cough up fluids automatically. If you’re concerned, ask your pediatrician about elevating the head of your baby's bed.

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