What Do We Mean When We Say a Baby is "At Risk" for SIDS?
Known risk factors for SIDS.
Although the exact cause of SIDS is unknown, there are known ways to reduce your child's risk.
According to the U.S. Department of Public Health and Human Services, babies are at an increased risk for SIDS if they:
- Sleep on their stomachs
- Sleep on soft surfaces such as a couch, chair or adult mattress
- Sleep on or under loose bedding
- Are too hot during sleep
- Are exposed to cigarette smoke while in the womb or in their current environment (home, car, bedroom, etc.)
- Sleep in an adult bed with parents, other children, pets
Babies who typically sleep on their back, but are placed on their stomach for sleep (or a nap) are at a high risk for SIDS.