Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) can be among a parent’s worst nightmares. The unexplained death of an otherwise healthy baby, SIDS typically occurs during sleep. Although there isn’t a way to fully prevent SIDS from occurring, there are several precautions parents can take to help keep their babies safe.
Reducing the Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
The exact causes of SIDS are unknown, but research has shown that practicing the following safe-sleep habits and other precautions for your baby can help reduce their risk:
- Place your baby on their back for all sleep times – not their side or stomach.
- Use a safety-approved crib with mattress and fitted sheet to assure a flat sleep surface.
- Avoid keeping soft items like pillows, stuffed toys and blankets in their crib.
- Offer your baby a pacifier during sleep times.
- Keep your baby’s crib in the same room that you sleep in until they are at least 6 months old.
- Make sure your baby doesn’t get too hot. Avoid covering their head during sleep and monitor their body temperature by checking for excessive sweating or if their chest feels hot.
- Do not smoke, drink or use illegal drugs during pregnancy.
- Breastfeed your baby for as long as you can.
- Maintain regular checkups with your baby’s health care provider.
SIDS On the Decline
Since the 1990s, the rate of SIDS in the United States has declined significantly. This is largely due to safe-sleep recommendations released by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 1992 as well as other widespread public awareness campaigns.
Over the years, SIDS rates have dropped from 130.3 deaths per 100,000 live births in 1990 to 33.3 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019.
Pediatrics at Lane
Lane Pediatrics is pleased to offer pediatric services for newborns, toddlers, children and teens. Our pediatric services include well-baby exams, developmental screenings, sports physicals, immunizations and more. We value the trust you place in us and look forward to getting to know your family.
