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  • Writer's pictureInstitute Staff
    • Oct 25, 2021
    • 1 min read

Preventing Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month. Sadly, more than 1 out of 3 of sudden unexpected infant deaths that occur in the United States each year are from SIDS.


Let's help prevent SIDS! Here are a few helpful tips:

  • The back sleep position carries the lowest risk of SIDS and is recommended for all babies, including preterm babies, until they are 1 year old - Always place baby on their back to sleep!

  • Always use a firm and flat surface, such as a mattress in a safety-approved crib, that is free of soft and loose bedding, crib bumpers, stuffed animals, and toys.

  • Keeping baby in your room, in a separate safe sleep area made just for baby (such as a safety-approved crib next to your bed) helps to reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related causes of infant death.

  • Breastfeeding or feeding babies breast milk reduces their risk for SIDS.



For more great tips and resources, visit the National Institute of Health's Safe Infant Sleep Website.

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