Sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) is the death of an infant less than one year of age that occurs suddenly and unexpectedly, and whose cause of death is not immediately obvious. Of the 4,500 cases of SUID each year, up to 90 percent are the result of unsafe sleeping practices. One of the best ways to reduce your baby's risk of SUID is to practice safe sleeping techniques.
SIDS is a specific type of SUID and, while its precise cause is unknown, doctors believe it may originate from a problem in a baby's brain or brainstem. Safe sleeping practices may also reduce the risk of SIDS in infants.
Co-Sleeping
An infant's risk of death is 40 times greater while sleeping in a bed with adults or other children. Suffocation on blankets, pillows or other soft surfaces could occur, or your baby could be injured by shifting bodies or falling from the bed. Never drift to sleep in a couch or armchair with your baby as this exposes him or her to similar risks.
Safe Sleeping Environment
Reduce the risk of SUID by following these guidelines:
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) encourages parents to keep their baby's crib in their bedroom during his or her first six months.
• The temperature of the room should be kept comfortable for an adult with light clothes on.
• Make sure the crib is not broken and has not been recalled. Do not use a crib older than 10 years.
• The crib mattress should be firm and there should be no more than one inch between its edges and the sides of the crib.
• Remove all blankets, toys and soft materials from the baby's crib to prevent possible suffocation.
Safe Sleeping Practices
When putting your baby to sleep, follow these tips:
• Always place infants on their back. Babies should never be placed on their sides or stomach when put to sleep, even for a nap.
• Dress infants in light clothing to prevent overheating. If concerned about temperature, use a one-piece sleeping outfit, never a blanket, to keep your baby warm.
• For the first year, offer a pacifier at nighttime or naptime. Wait until regular nursing has been established.
For more information or tips to reduce the risk of SUID, please visit www.firstcandle.org.
