HealthPartners - Preparing for childbirth

Safe Sleep and SIDS SIDS is a term used to describe the sudden and unexplained death of a baby. It’s the leading cause of death in babies 1 to 12 months old. Children can also die during sleep if they can’t breathe. Bedding and other things in the crib can trap the baby or cut off their air supply. Although there is no absolute way to prevent SIDS, there are things you can do to help your baby sleep more safely. Be sure babysitters, grandparents, and other caregivers also know how to put your baby down for naps or sleep safely.

SCAN + PLAY

YOUR NEW BABY

ABCS OF SAFE SLEEP

C stands for Crib. Your baby should sleep in a crib, not on an adult bed, sofa, cushion, or other soft surface.

B stands for Back. Your baby should always be placed on their back, not their side or stomach.

A stands for Alone. Your baby should sleep alone, not with other people, pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals.

NEED TO KNOW

Basic guidelines for safe sleep • Make a safe sleep area (see ABCs of Safe Sleep above) • Always lay your baby down on their back to sleep, even for naps • Keep baby’s head and face uncovered so they don’t get too hot

• Share your room with your baby but not your bed • Breastfeed to lower your baby’s risk of SIDS

To read more about safe sleep, visit www.healthychildren.org and www.nichd.nih.gov .

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