HealthFirst

Safer Sleep Week: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

17th March 2023

What is SIDS or SUDC?

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), for a baby under the age of 12 months, or Sudden Unexplained Death in a Child (SUDC) over the age of 12 months, is when a baby tragically dies from an unknown cause.

Thankfully, infant mortality rates across Europe keep falling, but the causes of SIDS are not understood.  There is ongoing research to try to get to the bottom of this. A baby who dies from SIDS is thought to have a combination of factors affecting them at a vulnerable stage in their development.

Who is more at risk of SIDS?

Premature babies and babies born with a low birth weight are known to be more at risk of SIDS. In addition, in general, babies under the age of three months are more at risk, and by 6 months of age their risk decreases.

How can I reduce the risk of SIDS?

Here are six evidence based top tips to help reduce the risk of SIDS:

  • If you are able, breastfeed your baby. We know that breastfeeding protects against SIDS.
  • Put your baby BACK to sleep: lie them flat on their back when settling them at night-time or for naps.
  • Share a room with your baby for at least the first 6 months after they are born.
  • Keep your baby ‘smoke free’ during pregnancy and after birth.
  • Never fall sleep in an armchair or on a sofa with your baby.
  • Don’t share a bed with your baby if someone in the bed smokes, has drunk alcohol, or has taken drugs or medication that can make them sleepy or drowsy.

If you want to find out about more ways to reduce the risk of SIDS and make sleep safer for your baby, take a look at the Lullaby trust website https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk which is full of information from the ideal room temperature, to mattresses and bedding, and getting bereavement support. You can also ask your midwife or your baby’s doctor for advice.This video is worth looking at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NO2vbtjNk2c

HealthFirst runs an online course which teaches you and your partner how to act in an emergency involving a baby or child. You can find details here: https://healthfirst.ch/for-public/first-aid-training/saving-young-lives-cpr-and-emergency-first-aid-for-babies-and-children/ 

Carer listens to baby breathing

 

More Articles

Meet the Team – Nurse Christine Blom

Blog, Meet the team

Meet the Team – Nurse Christine Blom

Meet the Team, our monthly introduction to the team members at HealthFirst. Introducing Nurse Christine Blom, HealthFirst Senior Trainer.

20th January 2025

HealthFirst Reflects on 2024: A Year of Impact and Collaboration

Blog, First Aid, Mental Health, Physical Health

HealthFirst Reflects on 2024: A Year of Impact and Collaboration

As 2024 comes to a close, HealthFirst is proud to celebrate a year of meaningful partnerships and impactful work with communities, charities, and foundations. Our commitment to improving overall health and well-being has driven us to engage in diverse initiatives across Europe. Read more about some highlights.

13th December 2024

Exciting News: HealthFirst Joins the Global Effort to Improve Newborn Care

Blog

Exciting News: HealthFirst Joins the Global Effort to Improve Newborn Care

Infant mortality rates remain tragically high in many parts of the world. At HealthFirst, we’re committed to being part of the solution.

11th December 2024

Stay in Touch

Keep up to date with all our latest training and courses