Sudden infant death syndrome is the unexplained death of a baby. The baby is usually less than a year old and seems to be healthy. It often happens during sleep. Sudden infant death syndrome also is known as SIDS. It is sometimes called crib death because infants often die in their cribs.
The cause of SIDS is unknown. But it may be caused by problems in the area of an infant's brain that controls breathing and waking up from sleep.
Researchers have found some things that might put babies at higher risk. They've also found some things you can do to help protect your child from SIDS. The most important action may be to place a baby on the back to sleep.
Both physical and sleep factors put an infant at risk of SIDS. These factors vary from child to child.
Physical factors associated with SIDS include:
A baby's sleeping position, items in the crib and other conditions may increase the risk of SIDS. Examples include:
SIDS can happen to any infant. But researchers have found several factors that might raise the risk. They include:
During pregnancy, mothers also affect their babies' risk of SIDS, especially if they:
There's no definite way to prevent SIDS. But you can help your baby sleep more safely by following these tips:
Back to sleep. Place your baby to sleep in the correct position — on the back. Be sure to use the back position every time you or anyone else puts your baby to sleep for the first year of life. Don't trust that others will place your baby to sleep in the correct position: Insist on it. This won't be needed once your baby can roll over both ways without help.
Don't put your baby on the stomach or side to sleep. Advise a caregiver to only use the stomach position when the baby and caregiver are both in the same room and both are awake. Short periods of "tummy time" help a baby build muscle strength. But the baby should never be left alone during tummy time.
Have your baby sleep in your room. If possible, your baby should sleep in your room with you, but not in the same bed. Have your baby sleep alone in a crib or bassinet with a mattress designed for infant bedding. Your baby should sleep in the same room with you for at least six months.
Adult beds aren't safe for infants. A baby can become trapped and suffocate between the headboard slats. Those are the spaces between the mattress and the bed frame. A baby also can get trapped in the space between the mattress and the wall. And a baby can suffocate if a sleeping parent accidentally rolls over and covers the baby's nose and mouth.
Offer a pacifier. Sucking on a pacifier at nap time or bedtime may reduce the risk of SIDS. Make sure the pacifier does not have a strap or cord. If you're breastfeeding, wait to offer a pacifier until you and your baby have settled into a nursing routine. It usually takes 3 to 4 weeks to set up a nursing routine.
If your baby is not interested in the pacifier, don't force it. Try again another day. If the pacifier falls out while your baby is sleeping, don't put it back in.
There's no treatment for SIDS. But your baby's pediatrician or other health care professional can talk with you about any risks your baby may have. And there are ways to help your baby sleep safely.
For the first year, always place your baby to sleep on the back. Use a firm, flat mattress and avoid fluffy pads and blankets. Remove all toys and stuffed animals from the crib. Try using a pacifier. Don't cover your baby's head, and make sure your baby doesn't get too hot. Your baby can sleep in your room, but not in your bed. Breastfeeding for at least six months to a year lowers the risk of SIDS. Vaccine shots to protect your baby from diseases also may help prevent SIDS.
After losing a baby to SIDS, getting emotional support is critical. You might be feeling guilty as you grieve the loss of your baby. You're also likely to be dealing with a police investigation into the cause of death as required by law. You might find it comforting to talk to other parents whose lives have been affected by SIDS.
Ask your doctor or other member of your care team to suggest a support group in your area or online. Talking to a trusted friend, mental health professional or clergy member also can help.
If you can, let friends and family know how you're feeling. People want to help, but they might not know how to approach you.
Losing a child can put a terrible strain on a relationship. Be as open as possible with your spouse or partner. Counseling helps some couples understand and express their feelings.
Finally, give yourself time to grieve. It's understandable to cry unexpectedly and to find holidays and milestones difficult. You'll also feel tired and drained at times.
You're dealing with a devastating loss. Healing can take time.
