Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), previously known as cot death, is where babies die suddenly, often with no explanation. This is rare and the risk can be considered reduced by following some safe sleep advice.

This post will provide you with key steps you can take to support your baby to sleep safely

3 KEY STEPS

1. PUT BABY ON BACK TO SLEEP

The most effective way to create safe sleep is to lie your baby on their back to sleep. This has been proven to be safer than sleeping on their front or side. It is important to do this for evert sleep – naps and night-time. Once your baby is able to roll from front to back themselves it is safe to allow them to find their own position but start by putting them down on their back.

2. CREATE A SLEEP SPACE THAT IS CLEAR, FLAT AND JUST FOR BABY

The safest place for your baby to sleep is in their own cot. Here are a few tips to help create a safe sleep space for your baby:

• Keep baby in the same room as your for the first 6 months.
• Provide a firm, flat mattress.
• Keep the space clear – no pillows, duvets, sleep pods/nests, soft toys.
• Ensure baby cannot reach any items outside the cot e.g. blind chords, mobiles.
• Place baby at the bottom of the cot ‘feet to foot’ so they cannot slide under the covers.
• Room temperature should be 16 to 20 degrees.
• Keep babies head uncovered.
• Use bedding appropriate for the time of year.
• Avoid sleeping in bouncers or car seats (unless in the car).

3. AVOID SMOKING

Keeping baby smoke free, both before and after birth, greatly reduces the risk of SIDS.

If you, or your partner, smoke there is support available to help you quit. Speak to your midwife or health visitor to access support.

BEDSHARING

Some parents choose to share their bed with their baby and it is important to consider ways to support safe sleep in this environment:

• Keep baby away from pillows or duvets.
• Ensure baby cannot fall out or get trapped between bed and wall.
• Never leave baby alone in the bed.
• Keep pets or other children out of bed.
• If baby is using a sleeping bag they do not need any other blankets.

DOS AND DONTS FOR SAFE SLEEP

As well as the 3 key steps above there are some more points to consider to support safe sleep.

DO breastfeed your baby if possible

DO use the correct size sleeping bag

DO ask for help if unsure about safe sleep

DON’T drink alcohol or take drugs when caring for your baby

DON’T fall asleep on a sofa or chair with your baby

SAFE SLEEP SAVES LIVES

SUPPORT

Using the key steps listed above to support your baby to sleep safely can dramatically reduce the risk of SIDS. We understand there is a lot of anxiety around becoming parents and encourage you to seek support if there is anything you are unsure of.

Your midwife or health visitor can advise you further on implementing the keys steps to support safe sleep for your baby.

More information can be found from:

The Lullaby Trust (www.lullabytrust.org.uk)

and Safe Sleep Scotland (www.safesleepscotland.org)