It is important to realize, from the start, that SIDS cannot be prevented. Having said that, there are specific things that parents can do in order to decrease the chances of SIDS occurring.

Many of the things that you can do to decrease the chances of SIDS occurring have to do with prenatal care. Getting regular prenatal care seems to be one key in decreasing the chances of SIDS occurring. In addition, because smoking seems to be a sizeable risk factor for SIDS, quitting smoking is also thought to decrease the chances of SIDS occurring. The same holds true for illicit drug use. Even a history of sexually transmitted disease, or a urinary tract infection, can increase the chances of SIDS occurring. In addition, babies born to mothers under the age of 20 have higher chances of SIDS occurring.

You can also decrease the chances of SIDS occurring by putting into place some practices regarding your baby’s sleeping arrangements. Using a firm mattress is thought to decrease the chances of SIDS occurring. In addition, keeping anything soft or loose in the crib will increase the chances of SIDS occurring. Also, when you do put your baby down to sleep at night or for a nap, it is important that you place your baby on his or her back. Using a pacifier at bed time and at nap time is also thought to decrease the chances of SIDS occurring. It is also thought that the chances of SIDS occurring are reduce if the baby has a place to sleep that is in the same room as the parents, but not in the same bed.

If you are concerned about SIDS occurring with your infant, you should speak with your health care provider. Your health care provider may be able to help you with the latest research about what exactly causes SIDS, as well as how to decrease the chances of SIDS occurring.

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