Some infant care practices that have been linked to an increased risk of SIDS include:
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Placing infants on their stomachs to sleep: Infants who are placed on their stomachs to sleep are at higher risk for SIDS. This is because infants who sleep on their stomachs may have a harder time breathing and may be more likely to re-breathe exhaled air, which can increase the risk of SIDS.
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Using soft bedding or loose objects in the sleep environment: Infants who sleep with soft bedding or loose objects, such as pillows or blankets, are at higher risk for SIDS. These items can block an infant’s airway or cause them to become tangled, which can increase the risk of SIDS.
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Exposing infants to tobacco smoke: Infants who are exposed to tobacco smoke, either before or after birth, are at higher risk for SIDS.
On the other hand, some infant care practices that have been linked to a decreased risk of SIDS include:
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Placing infants on their backs to sleep: Infants who are placed on their backs to sleep are at lower risk for SIDS. This is because infants who sleep on their backs are less likely to re-breathe exhaled air and are less likely to have their airways blocked by soft bedding or loose objects.
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Using a firm and flat sleep surface: Infants who sleep on a firm and flat surface, such as a crib or bassinet, are at lower risk for SIDS. Soft surfaces, such as sofas or adult beds, can increase the risk of SIDS.
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Keeping the sleep environment free of tobacco smoke: Infants who are not exposed to tobacco smoke are at lower risk for SIDS.
It is important for parents to be aware of these infant care practices and to follow recommendations for reducing the risk of SIDS.
This may involve placing infants on their backs to sleep, using a firm and flat sleep surface, and keeping the sleep environment free of soft objects and loose bedding.
It is also recommended that infants sleep in the same room as their parents, but not in the same bed, to reduce the risk of SIDS.
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