Published on April 21, 2025

What You Should Know About Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

baby

As the leading cause of death in infants 1 month to 1 year old, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) can be quite frightening for parents. Educating yourself and understanding the risk factors are important steps you can take as a parent in protecting your child from SIDS.

What is SIDS?

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is when an infant under 1 year old dies suddenly in their sleep without any cause or explanation.  SIDS falls under a category known as sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), which encompasses all unexpected infant deaths, both from known and unknown causes. The exact source of SIDS is unknown, which makes it difficult to prevent. SIDS can affect any baby, even healthy ones that are properly cared for.

What are the risk factors?

Although there is no known cause for SIDS, researchers believe there are certain factors that can increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome. Some of these factors include:

If while pregnant, the mother:

  • Smokes or vapes.
  • Uses drugs or alcohol.
  • Receives poor prenatal care.
  • Is under the age of 20.
  • Has a family history of SIDS.

If the baby is:

  • Born prematurely.
  • Put to sleep on their stomach or side.
  • In a crib with loose blankets or pillows.
  • Sleeping on a soft surface.
  • Sharing a bed with its parents.
  • Overheated.

Can you reduce the risk of SIDS?

Unfortunately, there is no definitive approach to preventing SIDS. However, there are certain precautions you can take to help reduce the risk of SIDS. Some of these precautions include:

  • Proper education
    • As a parent, knowing more about SIDS can be beneficial to both you and your baby. Recognizing risk factors and safe sleeping habits can help protect your baby from SIDS. If you have any questions, you can always reach out to your pediatric provider.
  • Back sleeping
    • Babies who sleep on their stomach or sides have a higher risk of SIDS. Researchers believe stomach sleeping may be linked with increased rates of “rebreathing” or airway blockage.
  • Empty crib
    • Make sure your baby’s crib is free of any soft items or loose bedding. These items can increase the risk of suffocation.
  • Room-sharing, not bed-sharing
    • Sharing a room, with your infant on a separate surface, is recommended for at least 6 months. 
  • Lightweight sleeping clothes
    • Ensure your baby sleeps in a room with a comfortable temperature so they can wear lightweight clothes to bed. This helps prevent overheating.
  • No exposure to secondhand smoke

How can I learn more about SIDS?

If you are a parent who wants to learn more about SIDS, there are many resources out there to help. Some of the resources we offer here at Faith Regional Health Services include the:

  • Parents Plus Program
    • This program helps first, and non-first-time parents receive support and education to help them prepare for a newborn. Information on SIDS is also a part of this program.
  • ABC’s of Safe Sleep
    • As part of the Safe Sleep Coalition for the State of Nebraska, Faith Regional sends home an ABC’s of Safe Sleep brochure with every family. This brochure educates parents on safe sleep practices to follow with their newborn.

Resources: Suzanne Rutten, RN Manager for Faith Regional Women’s & Children’s, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) (for Parents) | Nemours KidsHealth, What is SIDS? | Safe to Sleep® (nih.gov)