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and caregivers about SIDS and the importance of back
sleeping, more than 75% of U.S. infants sleep on their
backs or sides today.
In the United States, SIDS is the leading cause of
death in newborns, striking one to two infants out of
every 1,000. The most common time for SIDS to strike
is between the ages of two months and six months, with
most deaths occurring between midnight and 8 a.m.
The cause of SIDS is unknown. However, studies show
that most babies who die from SIDS had recently experienced
a cold or other upper respiratory tract illness.
To decrease the chances that SIDS will affect your
baby, Boys Town Pediatrics recommends:
- Always placing your baby on his back when sleeping,
unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- Never putting your baby to sleep on soft surfaces,
such as waterbeds or featherbeds, sheepskin rugs or
mattress covers, soft mattresses or comforters, or
pillows.
- Never smoking around your baby. Research shows that
second hand smoke greatly increases a baby's risk
of SIDS, during pregnancy and after.
It is critical to use proper bedding for your infant.
Babies should sleep on a firm mattress. There should
be no soft materials in the crib, including stuffed
toys, quilts, pillows, thick blankets or comforters.
SIDS can occur while your baby is with a caregiver
as well. Be sure to advise everyone who cares for your
infant about that you want your baby put to sleep on
his or her back and always in a crib on proper bedding.
If you have any questions about SIDS, talk with your
child's healthcare provider at your next visit
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