Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), also called crib death, is a condition that occurs when a healthy baby under the age of one dies unexpectedly. It’s not clear what causes SIDS or why it happens, although certain habits can help reduce your baby’s risk.
Experts don’t yet understand what causes SIDS. However, they are starting to learn that this condition may occur as a result of multiple factors that can interrupt breathing. Your baby could experience SIDS if they:
Baby boys have a higher risk of SIDS. This condition also affects white infants at lower rates, although experts aren’t yet sure why. SIDS is most likely to occur when a baby is between the ages of two months and four months.
A baby is also more likely to experience SIDS if their mother is under the age of 20, doesn’t get proper medical care during pregnancy, drinks alcohol, or uses drugs. If the mother or someone else in the household smokes cigarettes, the chances of SIDS also increase.
SIDS can’t be treated. However, practising safe sleeping habits can help protect your baby’s health.
When SIDS occurs, it can be devastating. It may help to join a support group to meet with other parents who have dealt with this issue. You may be able to connect with others locally or online. If you are able, try to also get support from family members and friends.
If you are having a hard time coping, it may be a good idea to talk to a therapist, counsellor, or religious leader. Talk therapy or medication may help you process your emotions. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your doctor for help.
SIDS can affect any infant. However, you can reduce your baby’s risk of this condition. If you are pregnant, you can improve the chances that your baby will be healthy by regularly going to the doctor and staying away from alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs.
You can also protect against SIDS by:
Some companies sell products or devices, such as wedge pillows or heart monitors, that they claim can prevent SIDS. However, no research has found that these products can actually work to reduce the risk of sudden death, and experts often recommend avoiding them.