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Baby's Sleep Position and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Table of Contents


Overview

How can you reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)?

Doing certain things may help protect a baby from SIDS and/or other deaths related to sleep:

There is no sure way to prevent SIDS, and no exam or test can predict whether a baby is likely to die of SIDS. Don't rely on breathing (apnea) monitors, special mattresses, or other devices marketed as a way to reduce your baby's risk of SIDS. None of these items have been proved to lower the risk of SIDS. The American Academy of Pediatrics does not advise their use.

Remember, SIDS is rare. Be as safe as you can, but don't let fear keep you from enjoying your baby. Tell your baby's caregivers what you expect them to do. Don't assume that they know what to do to help keep your infant safe during sleep.


References

Citations

  1. Moon RY, et al. (2022). Sleep-related infant deaths: Updated 2022 recommendations for reducing infant deaths in the sleep environment. Pediatrics, published online June 21, 2022: e2022057990. DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-057990. Accessed June 28, 2022.

Credits for Baby's Sleep Position and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

Current as of: October 24, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
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