What you need to know about SIDS

 

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)  is one of the biggest fears amongst parents, causing normally sane individuals to jolt randomly out of bed and lean over their baby’s cot to check that he is still breathing.

SIDS is the mysterious sudden death of an infant under 12 months old.  It is not common. SIDS claims the lives of approximately 45 infants in New Zealand each year. 

While there are theories and countless studies have been done on what exactly causes SIDS, experts have found tips to reduce the risk:

Put your baby on his back to sleep, from birth 
Ensure his face is uncovered while sleeping 
Ensure the cot mattress is firm and well-fitting 
Keep cot free of pillows, comforters or cuddly toys more tips on safe bedding here
Put your baby in his safe cot, with its safe mattress and safe bedding to sleep, night and day 
Position the cot next to your bed for the first six to 12 months of your baby’s life 
Avoid exposing your baby to tobacco smoke at any time (before birth or after).
 

 

Related articles:

More sleep advice
Choosing nursery furniture and bedding
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)


This article was written for Kidspot, New Zealand's leading pregnancy and parenting resource from sources including sids and kids  Better Health Channel