SIDS: reducing the risk
Put your baby on the back to sleep
The risk of SIDS — sudden infant death syndrome — is increased if babies sleep on their tummies. The best position for babies to sleep in is on their backs. Research shows that healthy babies placed to sleep on their backs are no more likely to regurgitate their feed and choke on vomit than babies who don't sleep on their backs.
If you choose to sleep your baby on the side, make sure that his or her lower arm is well forward to stop rolling onto the tummy. The side position is unsafe for babies if they roll onto their tummies during sleep. However, if your baby has certain medical or other conditions, side or tummy sleeping may have been recommended by your doctor or nurse.
Make sure your baby's head remains uncovered during sleep
If a baby's head becomes covered during sleep, the risk of SIDS is increased. Loose bedding can cover your baby's head. Tuck your baby in securely so that he or she can't slip under the bedclothes. Quilts, doonas, duvets, pillows, soft toys and cot bumpers should not be placed where your baby sleeps during the first year.
Keep your baby smoke free, before birth and after
The risk of SIDS is increased if the mother smokes during pregnancy. There is also some evidence to suggest that if fathers smoke while the mother is pregnant the risk of SIDS is increased. In fact, if both parents smoke then the risk is doubled. It is best for both parents not to smoke at all, but the less you smoke, the lower the risk of SIDS.
Babies exposed to tobacco smoke after birth are at an increased risk of SIDS. To keep baby smoke free, don't let anyone smoke near your baby: not in the house, the car or anywhere else your baby spends time. It is often hard to quit smoking so ask for help.
Ask your doctor, midwife or infant health nurse for information and advice about quitting.
Last Reviewed: 02 May 2002
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