So take a look at the following tips on SIDS to educate yourself on how to reduce your baby's SIDS risk. According to the American SIDS Institute, approximately 2,500 infants die annually as a result of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics defines SIDS as, " the sudden unexplained death of a healthy infant younger than 1 year of age. It usually occurs in a previously healthy infant, and the cause of death remains unexplained despite a thorough investigation including an autopsy."  An exact cause of SIDS is still unknown; however, there are strategies that parents can put into place to reduce the risk of SIDS.

What parents can do

• Put your baby to sleep on her back. Infants who sleep on their side or on their tummy are at greater risk for SIDS. To prevent your baby's head from developing flat spots just remember to gently move your babies head to another position while asleep. These flat spots will go away. Infants skulls are quite soft - when they sleep with their head in the same position,  flat spots develop. Once you change your babies head position they go away. 
• Encourage your baby to use a pacifier. Several studies have shown a decrease in SIDS when a baby uses one. Of course, not all babies will want one but you can try and offer it and see if your infant will take it. Oftentimes, a pacifier needs to be offered quite a lot of times over a period of several weeks. Some babies take them straight away while some will need a gradual process of getting used to it.
• Discuss with your pediatrician if your infant has trouble breathing or seems to gag when spitting up.
• Try to breastfeed your baby. Studies have shown a decreased risk in breastfed infants.
• Avoid having your baby near people who are smoking tobacco. This includes people smoking in a car or in a house. The more your baby is exposed to tobacco smoke, the greater the risk of SIDS.
• Purchase a firm crib mattress (see crib safety). Make sure it fits snugly within the crib.
• Don't put your baby to sleep with anything. Take out all toys, blankets, pillows, bumpers, and positioning equipment. I know it does look a little barren in the crib, but really your baby is going to sleep, and doesn't need any of these things to do this.
• Dress your infant in clothes to keep them just warm enough, but not too hot. You can be the best judge of this. Take notice of the temperature in your baby's room and dress your baby accordingly. Some rooms are warmer in the day with the sun shining in, while at night it may be cooler. You can use your best judgment here.
• Ways to keep your baby warm without a blanket include: dressing your baby  in a sleep sack, using footed pajamas or one-piece and skull caps.
• Experts recommend keeping your baby in the room with you until they are about 6 months of age. This works well for night time feedings.
• The latest research shows that having a fan in the room, were there is no other ventilation, may reduce the risk of SIDS.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics

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