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SIDS Awareness and Practicing The ABC’s of Safe Sleep for Infants
As October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to revisit our ABC’s and learn about safe sleep practices.
The definition of SIDS is the sudden, unexpected death of an apparently healthy infant, under one year of age. While the exact cause of SIDS is unknown, researchers have been able to identify factors that are associated with infants and infant care practices that increase the risk for SIDS.
So learning about SIDS and safe sleep practices for infants is important for all caregivers and taking simple actions, like practicing your ABC’s of safe sleep can make a lifesaving difference.
What are those ABC’s you ask?
A – alone
Babies should sleep by themselves, in their own sleep space with no other people. Room-sharing is recommended, but bed sharing is not. Keep pillows, blankets, toys, stuffed animals, and all other soft items out of the sleep space.
B – on his or her back
Place infants on their backs for sleep. They will eventually learn how to roll from back to tummy and tummy to back. Once they can confidently roll over both ways on their own, it’s ok to leave them like that, but always place them on their back initially.
C – in a Crib (or other Safe Sleep environment like a bassinet or pack n play)
Use a crib, bassinet, or portable play yard with a firm, flat mattress and a fitted sheet. That’s it! The crib should not have bumpers of any kind, no other bedding or soft items should be in sleeping area.
Avoid letting a baby sleep on a couch or armchair, or in another device like a swing or bouncer. Sleeping in a car seat is ok, but only while riding in the car. Babies should be removed from the car seat and placed in a crib once the trip is done.
Every moment in a baby’s life is precious, that’s why it’s important for parents and caregivers to take the necessary steps to help reduce SIDS and keep infants safe and sound while sleeping.
If you would like to learn more about SIDS or safe sleep practices, please reach out to your medical provider or a member of our Healthy Start team.
The Healthy Start team at SIHF Healthcare is here to connect you with a doctor and others who can answer any questions regarding your pregnancy. Healthy Start also provides you with continual encouragement and support at every stage in your pregnancy, and as you care for your newborn. To see how we can assist you, visit us at https://www.sihf.org/patient-care-services/care-coordination-services/healthy-start.