SIDS, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, is a life-altering, grief-filled event. There are some ways to decrease the risk.
- Infants should be placed on their back to sleep until 12 months of age. Side sleeping is not suggested.
- Sleep on a firm surface, like a firm mattress covered with a fitted sheet.
- Sharing a room with an infant, without sharing a bed, can reduce the risk of SIDS by up to 50%
- Soft objects (loose bedding, stuffed animals, and pillows) should be kept out of the crib.
- Pregnant women should receive prenatal care
- Avoid smoke exposure during pregnancy and after birth.
- Avoid alcohol and illicit drug use during pregnancy and after birth
- Breastfeeding reduces SIDS risk.
- Do not use home cardio respiratory monitors (like apnea monitors) as a means of reducing the risk of SIDS.
- Offer the infant a pacifier at naptime and bedtime.
- Avoid overheating of infants.
Hope this helps.