BABY
15 Things Parents Can Do to Reduce the Risk of SIDS
Follow these steps to provide a safe environment for your baby.
Written by
Dr. Harvey Karp
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BABY
Written by
Dr. Harvey Karp
SHARE THIS ARTICLE
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In the UK, approximately 230 babies die of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) every year. Thankfully, annual rates of SIDS have been declining in the UK since the Back to Sleep Campaign, but there is still much work to be done.
While many cot deaths have no explanation, there are certain risk factors that dramatically increase a baby's risk of SIDS. Providing a safe sleep environment is the single most important step you can take to reduce your baby’s risk of SIDS. Cot death is not a topic anyone wants to think about—but thankfully, there are many ways to reduce your baby’s risk.
Unfortunately, there is no absolute way to prevent SIDS. But, most babies who die have at least one of these risk factors, so following all these tips to prevent SIDS can definitely make your baby safer! For a complete list of safety tips for parents and caregivers visit Lullaby Trust.
Disclaimer: The information on our site is NOT medical advice for any specific person or condition. It is only meant as general information. If you have any medical questions and concerns about your child or yourself, please contact your health provider. Breastmilk is the best source of nutrition for babies. It is important that, in preparation for and during breastfeeding, mothers eat a healthy, balanced diet. Combined breast- and bottle-feeding in the first weeks of life may reduce the supply of a mother's breastmilk and reversing the decision not to breastfeed is difficult. If you do decide to use infant formula, you should follow instructions carefully.
