SIDS Awareness Month: Risk factors and steps to keep baby safe

October is SIDS Awareness Month and Newsymom and the Tuscarawas County Health Department are sharing tips to keep your babies safe. 

What is SIDS?

SIDS (or sudden infant death syndrome) describes any sudden and unexpected infant fatality. Researchers have not been able to pinpoint one singular cause of SIDS. Knowing the risk factors and maintaining a safe sleeping environment for our babies are the best ways to reduce the risk. 

SIDS Risk Factors

While SIDS is always an unexpected tragedy, experts suggest that there are certain risk factors that can put babies at a higher risk. Being aware of potential risk factors can help us as caregivers be prepared to make the best decisions.  These risks include..

• Side or stomach sleeping
• Age- research shows that the risk of SIDS is at its peak between 1 and 4 months.
• Preterm infants with low birth weight are said to be at a greater risk
• Unsafe sleeping environment
• Tobacco exposure
• Maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy

Reducing Risks

Cases of SIDS are always unexpected- but there are measures to be taken that can help reduce the risk of SIDS. 

• Share a Bedroom with your infant. Experts recommend that an infant sleeps on their back, alone in a crib or bassinet in their parents’ room for at least the first 6 months. 
• Maintain a Safe Sleeping Environment.. current research suggests that the safest sleeping surface is flat, rigid and free of pillows, quilts or soft bedding. The mattress should be well fit with minimal gaps between the mattress and crib.  When positioning the crib, avoid windows with blinds or curtains as well as baby monitor cords as they can be strangulation hazards.
• Offer a Pacifier.. Research has shown that the use of a pacifier between 2 and 4 months old can help reduce the risk of SIDS.
• Avoid Drugs and Alcohol during your pregnancy. 
• Avoid Smoking during your pregnancy and avoid exposing your infant to smoke. Including second and third hand smoke.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a heavy topic that can make many new caregivers feel uneasy.  While there is still much to learn about the specific cause of SIDS, we do know that keeping our babies safe is a top priority for all caregivers. Stay informed, know the risks and trust your instincts! 

Reporting, Alyssa Harbold

Source: https://www.sleepfoundation.org/baby-sleep/sudden-infant-death-syndrome