It’s the worst nightmare of every parent, but according to the Lullaby Trust there are just over 190 unexplained deaths of babies and young children every year. The vast majority of these occur before the age of 1, usually in the first few months of life. These unexplained deaths are typically given the name “Sudden Infant Death Syndrome”, or SIDS.
It’s a terrifying statistic, but thankfully, since the launch of the Back to Sleep campaign in England and Wales in 1991 the number of SIDS deaths has fallen by over 80%. So, while we haven’t been able to completely eliminate SIDS, there are lots of practical and simple things that we can do to keep our babies safe.
So, what are the key things you need to know?
1. A baby sleeping on their back is 6 times safer than one on their front
Yep, putting your baby down to sleep on their back, on a firm, flat mattress really does have a huge impact on their safety. I know, babies don’t initially love sleeping on their backs. After all, it’s not what they’re used to. However, with the right tools and lots of very gentle practice, most newborns can become happy and comfortable on their backs. If you have a baby who is under 5 months old and you’d like me to show you how to introduce them gradually to comfortable sleep on their backs then click here to register for my newborn sleep workshop:
2. Sharing a room with your baby for the first six months can halve their risk of SIDS
Whether that’s in a moses basket, a next-to-me crib, or a full size cot, having your baby sleep in the same room as you offers them a lot of extra protection. So whatever you have space for in your bedroom, try to keep your baby in there with you for the first few months of their lives and make sure you’re supervising your baby during their nap time too.
3. Falling asleep on the sofa with your baby increases their SIDS risk by up to 50 times
This one is a huge risk! Yet when you’re exhausted I suspect we can all imagine situations where it would be all too easy for this to happen. If you’re at risk of falling asleep on a sofa or armchair with your baby you must move and place them somewhere safe. As long as you haven’t been drinking or using any drugs, intentionally bedsharing with your baby if you’re really tired is far safer than accidentally falling asleep holding them.
And a final reminder, if you’ve been given any of these things for your baby, then think twice before using them for sleep. They can all increase the risk to your baby:
· Pillows, duvets, cot bumpers or weighted bedding
· Pods, nests and sleep positioners *
· Soft toys (before 12 months old)
The vast majority of babies are perfectly safe while they sleep, especially if you’re doing your best to follow safe sleep guidance. If you’re worried about safe sleep, then please don’t worry alone. Speak to your health visitor or contact the Lullaby Trust for additional advice.
* Baby pods and nests are generally considered to be fine for a short period while your baby is awake. For example, if you need them somewhere hands-free next to you while you make a cup of tea. However, they’re not safe for sleep and always need to be used with supervision.
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