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How to reduce the risk of SIDS


In spite of a dramatic reduction (50-70%) in SIDS (Cot death) rates in developed countries, SIDS is still the leading cause of death of infants between one month and one year of age. Although SIDS is unpredictable and not all SIDS can be prevented, we can reduce the overall SIDS rate by understanding the risk factors and adopting protective measures to minimize the risks.

ISPID recommendations for reducing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome:

Always (day and night) place the baby on his/her back when it is time to sleep

  • The most significant proven risk factor is the sleep position. The risk for SIDS is many-fold higher for a baby sleeping in the prone position.
  • The practice of always placing the baby on his/her back when its time to sleep should begin at birth. The baby will become accustomed to sleep in the supine position and will have no problems falling asleep.
  • Make sure every caregiver uses the “back to sleep” position.  A caregiver placing a baby to sleep on his/her stomach or side when the baby is accustomed to sleeping on the back raises the risk of SIDS 18-fold.
  • Place the baby on the stomach only when he/she is awake and under adult supervision.

Always keep the baby’s environment smoke-free

  • Do not smoke during pregnancy. (The more you smoke the greater the risk for SIDS.)
  • Second-hand smoke is also a risk factor: stay in a smoke-free environment when pregnant.
  • Always maintain a smoke-free environment for the baby.


Make the sleeping environment as safe as possible and avoid overheating

  • The safest place for the baby to sleep is in a cot/baby bed next to the parents bed, at least for the first six months (room sharing).  This applies to day time sleeps as much as night time sleeps. If you choose to bedshare, do it safely by:
          - make sure the bed is big enough (avoiding too warm and sticky sleeping environment)
          - the baby has his/her own blanket/duvet
          - make sure the baby can’t roll out of the bed or get caught between the bed and the wall.
  • Never share a bed with baby when you have had alcohol or drugs.
  • Never share a bed with baby if you or your partner smokes. Babies whose parents smoke are at increased risk for SIDS while co-sleeping.
  • Never sleep with baby on a couch or sofa. This increases the risk of SIDS and fatal sleep accidents.
  • Keep the crib free of soft objects and anything loose or fluffy (bedding, toys, bumpers, pillows).
  • Do not cover the baby’s head with blankets.
  • Use a clean, safe and firm mattress that fits the crib properly. Use fitted sheets on the mattress and beddings made for babies (duvets, blankets). If the mattress is used, make sure it is in good condition.
  • Overheating is a SIDS risk factor. Keep room temperature at appr. 18°C and avoid over-dressing (i.e., too many layers of clothes) when placing the baby to sleep.

A word about breast feeding and use of pacifiers as protective factors

  • Breast feeding is always recommended for its numerous benefits for babies and mothers (as a source of multiple necessary nutrients, disease protection and as a contributor to mother-baby bonding). 
  • Research suggests that using a pacifier may reduce the risk of SIDS. Start using a pacifier after one month of age when breast feeding is usually well established. Give a pacifier when you put the baby to sleep, but do not force it.


Sist oppdatert den 07/01/2010


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